Town & Village Life Magazine - March/April 2015 by Jonathon

TOWN & VILLAGE LIFE MAGAZINE

March/April 2015

Win a pamper package at Wollaston Beauty Clinic Win tickets for The Ghost Train show at The Grand Theatre

TOWN & VILLAG E LIFE MA GA Z INE

Win lunch for 2 people at No.92 Oldswinford Coffee Lounge

MARCH/APRIL 2015

Delivered to areas of: Hagley, West Hagley, Stourbridge, Pedmore, Oldswinford, Norton, Wollaston, Amblecote, Wordsley, Kingswinford, Lawnswood, Wall Heath, Kinver, Bobbington, Heathton, Stourton, Enville, Swindon, Himley and Sedgley

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Hello Readers, Brace yourselves, dear readers, because as general election fever prepares to sweep through Britain they’ll be a myriad of vomit-inducing PR shams to avoid, involving flower sniffin’, kitty pettin’, baby kissin’ politicians, hell-bent on obtaining your vote – whatever the cost. At TVL, we won’t debase ourselves in such oleaginous fashion to curry favour with our good readers – oh no! – we’ll instead just keep on toiling away quietly and let you decide for yourselves who is best. There’s no political bias here either. In these pages you’ll see no Red Ed, Yellow Clegg or Tory Dave. Any sign of manifest Monster Raving Lunacy from our writers is strictly unintentional. What you will find is loads of Mother’s Day gift ideas – whether hair and beauty-based, eating out or involving places to visit, like Halfpenny Green or Old Mill Antiques in Bridgnorth. No one deserves a treat more than dear old mother bird. Lucky lovers among you will have your interest piqued by our feature on tying the knot. Furthermore, it’s just about time to spring into action for spring. As in the case of politics, a new broom sweeps clean. There are ideas for new kitchens and bathrooms to help tart up your castle; best built-in bedroom furniture bargains; carpets and home furnishings - including curtains, blinds and awnings. And never forget your garden: it may have been home only to pigeons and stray cats throughout the cold winter months, but now’s the time to knock-up fencing, lay slabs or get a complete garden makeover from landscapers, Boningale. Talking of makeovers: if you do get seduced by the politicians’ perfectly photoshop’d smiles, why not consider shining up your own pearly whites with a little cosmetic dentistry of your own. We have the answers. It’ll paint a smile on your face regardless of who wins in May. Enjoy your read...

Geoff

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

Town & Village Life Magazine Ltd Lytham Rd, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY Tel: 01902 744217 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Advertising enquiries

Email: sales@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Gisella Wiley - Sales Director

Editorial/What’s On information

Email: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk Geoff Hall - Editor Magazine design: Studio 28 (www.s28.co.uk) We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Town & Village Life magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Town & Village Life magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise without the prior consent of Town & Village Life magazine Ltd.

Contents meet the boss furniture and fabrics

4 11/12

louise Presley turner – life Coach

Crosswords and puzzles

kinver Country fayre

biking to bromsgrove

stourbridge rugby Club

new group offers support to local grandparents 30 recipe of the month

grand theatre competition

the garden in march

gardening with Ann Winwood

rotary club of stourbridge

no92 Coffee lounge competition

kinver music festival

mother’s day

saffron Pink food review

68/69

make your wedding day one to remember

71/72

blown away

fresh faced

Win a mother’s day pamper package with Wollaston beauty Clinic Women’s fashion – flower power

88 90/91

education and schooling social scene

102 106/107

men’s fashion – looking good, new season looks for him

108

A new chapter for the volvo xC90

110

motoring review – kia soul

112

Answers to Crossword & Puzzles

114

Congratulations to: Winners of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time competition at The Grand Theatre Mrs Linda Ashman, Oldswinsford Mr Tony James, Swindon Mrs Enid Darby, Stourbridge Winner of the meal for 2 competition at The French Connection Mr Trevor Wiltshire, Pedmore Winners of the Leisure Club Membership competition at Velocity Health Club, The Village Hotel Kate Gregory, Wordsley Kate Adams, Dudley

*Total distribution 15,500 copies bi-monthly

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Alan, MD of Three Pines Building Company

the ability to see in my mind the finished project and still being able to learn every day – these are the things that drive me,” he says. As head of Three Pines Building Company in Wolverhampton, Alan champions the National Apprentice Scheme, the “thorough” career route to his own accomplishments. “We always have two or three. It’s hard for kids out there and people like us need to give them a chance,” he adds. By the time Alan had left school, his father David had already established Three Pines doing school maintenance, extensions and local council adaptations for houses. But he refused to let his son join the family business without a trade. “It was a wise choice. I spent three years with Sir Alfred McAlpine, was their Apprentice of The Year, and at the end of my time with them had been appointed assistant site agent on a McDonalds project at New Street Station, Birmingham. “McDonalds were just establishing themselves in the UK and I had three of the top bosses from McAlpine come to try to talk me out of leaving,” says Alan. Joining in 1982, the transition into the family firm held more than a few surprises.

Meet the boss:

Premier player with quality hallmark Life-long Wolves fan Alan Bradshaw knows a lot about building a quality, winning team. In recent years a clutch of premiership contracts has seen his construction company comfortably sitting at the top of its game. Just like the club he has followed since a boy, Alan is an influential player in the building business, securing prestigious ‘trophies’ with the likes of Mercedes, BMW, Audi, the multinational BOC Group, Caterpillar, celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe, local authorities and the Ministry of Defence. Not least, is the work he has overseen at the Molineux Stadium. “We’ve been doing 04

work there for 20 years and have refurbished the executive boxes and the reception,” he says. At 53 this managing director, who sits comfortably in his own skin as a carpenter turned executive, has nothing to prove, but refuses to rest on his laurels. “I’m always seeking opportunity – you have to – whether it’s new projects with existing clients, investment into our own housing development schemes, a domestic extension or an adaptation for the disabled... “Ever since my teens I wanted to be in construction, I still want to be in construction and I’m still passionate about building. “Talking to clients, doing such a wide range of work, having

“I thought I’d be doing carpentry. It was my trade and I was good at it, but the first thing I did was to work as a labourer carrying bricks for a bricklayer. I spent six months doing that and then another six months with a plumber. “From there I was taken into the offices one day a week – later two days – doing the wages. Eventually, I was permanently in the office. “The experience allowed me to understand everything about my father’s business. Even now, when I’m on site and need to explain something, I’ll often take up the tools and show the men how I want something done. I can still do the job and they respect me for it,” says Alan. With 12 staff and 25 other directly employed workers, Three Pines boasts a workforce where some, now highly-skilled craftsmen, came on a Youth Training Scheme in the ‘80s and decided to stay. Why? “Family values extend beyond my home and I treat the staff as part of that family.”

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Whether you require refurbishment, extensions or new build, Three Pines are building contractors in Wolverhampton, who have the skills and expertise to handle your project from planning through to completion.

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Cullwick Court, Cullwick Street, Wolverhampton WV12 2UR Tel: 01902 499919 Email: info@three-pines.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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or simply as floor heat to keep the chill off Underfloor Heating from Warmup® is inexpensive, easy to install and comes with a lifetime warranty. Our SafetyNet™ guarantee covers under tile heating installation errors for complete peace-of-mind! Tile Choice are now offering lower prices with 40% off all Warmup Underfloor heating products, Britain’s best-selling electrical underfloor heating system. The first company to offer a lifetime guarantee on undertile heating.

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graphs of your recorded energy consumption against costs. Electric heating is no longer an expensive luxury it is built for everyone to enjoy. All you have to do is measure your room and pick which heating kit you require and choose from the range of thermostats that we offer. This is a very simple to install and use product with a selfadhesive mesh, which makes it very easy to lay and the single end connection means you only have to run one cable to the thermostat. With your selected tiles laid you can enjoy the warmth of underfloor heating for many years to come.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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2015 advertisement feature

Pension Pitfalls As from April 2015, pension investors will be free to do what they like with their pension savings at retirement.

Almost half a million people will be eligible to take advantage of these new rules this year, the question to be answered is, are the pension freedoms a good thing or bad thing? The Government has voiced its opinion that it expects some people to make wrong choices, given the new freedoms on offer. Recently, Steve Webb, the Government’s

Pension Minister said “this coming April some people will get it wrong”. So what should people be aware of, here we explain some possible pitfalls and how you could try and avoid them? Don’t turn yourself into a 45% income tax-payer Once you turn 55 you can normally take up to a quarter of your pension as a tax-free lump sum. This has not changed and this tax-free cash is yours to spend or invest as you wish. You can then take as much or as little as you like from the pension, however, these withdrawals are taxable. Some argue the hope of the Government is that these new pension rules could net the Treasury an extra £3 billion in tax receipts over the next four years. All withdrawals you make during the tax year will be added to the rest of your income in that tax year, and then will be subject to

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

income tax at your highest rate. This could move you into a higher tax bracket and you could possibly end up being a top rate tax payer (45%) if you make a withdrawal which, combined with your other income, takes you over £150,000. The other problem here is your personal annual tax allowance (for most people this is £10,000) starts to be scaled down once your income exceeds £100,000. It reduces for every £2 of income you have over £100,000. So if your taxable income is between £100,000 and £120,000 (2014/2015), you might effectively be subject to a tax rate of up to 60%. Avoiding the problem can be achieved by: 1. Not taking large withdrawals all at once. Staggering your withdrawals over different tax years, could reduce the tax you pay. 2. Use more of your tax-free cash to supplement you otherwise taxable income in the early years. 3. Pensions shelter your savings from tax until you take the money out, you don’t pay income tax or capital gains tax on the income or growth from your investments, and in most cases your pension is exempt from inheritance tax. It can be sensible to keep this tax efficient status going for as long as possible. The new rules also offer more options for passing on your pension, in some cases tax free, when you die.

Make sure you don’t run out of money A pension is there to provide income in retirement; this period could be 30 years or more. If you spend all your pension savings in the early years, or draw more income than is sustainable over the long term, your pension might not last as long as you do. Many people in the UK underestimate their life expectancy; few will want to be reliant on the state in their old age. It is therefore very important to know how much money you are likely to need to last your retirement. Avoiding the problem can be achieved by: 1. Setting in place some funds which can be used to buy a secure income for life. Whilst low on risk and return, this will never run out and can be used to pay essential living costs, which have a tendency to keep increasing through retirement.

represents around 1,300 funds, with 17 million savers, has warned there could be severe delays. Major insurance companies have also predicted capacity concerns. There is no legal obligation for providers to be ready for the April 2015 kick-off. Avoiding the problem can be achieved by: Consider transferring your pension to a provider who will be ready by the kick-off date. Don’t get a fine from HM Revenue and Customs Savers who have more than one pension may be required to notify their other pension providers once they start to draw from one of these pensions. Many of the issues surrounding pensions are very complex and before making any decisions it is recommended that advice is taken from an independent professional qualified financial adviser.

2. When you take regular income directly from your pension fund, keep the amounts under regular review to ensure you stay on track and consider just taking the income generated by the investments themselves. Will your provider pay the bill? One big unanswered question of the new freedoms is will pension firms allow their clients to take advantage of them in full. The National Association of Pension Funds

John Webb

John Webb is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, the highest accolade designated by that organisation. The Personal Finance Society is the professional body for the Financial Advisory Profession in the United Kingdom, promoting the highest standards of technical knowledge, client service and ethical practice.

If you would like more information or need advice on your specific circumstances please feel free to contact the author John Webb of Midland Independent Financial Services Limited on 01543 468877 or john.webb@midlandifa.co.uk Midland Independent Financial Services is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Midland Independent Financial Services Ltd, 153 Avon Road, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 1LF. Telephone 01543 468877. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

F U R N I T U R E AND FABRICS money in furniture and furnishing fabrics with user-friendliness, durability and eye-appeal.

Wander around the soft furnishings department of any store and you will be transported into a world of sheer wonder. You will be astounded by the variety of designs, the richness and diversity of colour, the practicality of the fabrics themselves. Today’s textiles come in man-made and natural fibres. The former have all the easy-care facilities you could possibly wish for, ready built-in. The latter will have been treated with the latest technology to make sure they too come up to scratch.

Until you really need to go out and buy new furnishings for your home, you probably won’t fully appreciate the changes in style, the wealth of design ideas and the sheer range of materials available in the shops today.

we have lived for so long, we are faced with the whole cultural shock of design ideas and a range of materials and fabrics we had never thought to see. The impact is almost enough to send us scurrying back to our old, familiar homes. However, this is what living in the second decade of the 21st century is all about. Never before has there been quite the freedom of choice, scope of inspiration or value for

Then there are the variety of textures including smooth, chunky or deep piled. Today’s fabrics don’t just look good; they also have ‘feel’ appeal. Choose your fabrics for their impact. Have them made into curtains, blinds, cushions, lamp shades and loose covers. If they really do things for you, have them made into spectacular wall hangings as well. Hanging decorative fabrics on walls is a very ancient idea in decor that is slowly returning to fashion. Wall hangings can be made to match your window dressings or contrast with them. Either way, windows should also be dressed with flair and élan. Hang frothy nets beneath heavy, lined

True, we flick through the homemaking magazines. We look with astonishment perhaps, at some of the latest ideas in decor, so graphically portrayed. Usually, we approve fleetingly, wonder at the possible cost, and then discard the whole matter in favour of more pressing things. There comes a time however, when some refurbishment has to be done, when we move perhaps, or when some radical renewal of decor or internal building work has been carried out? Then it is we decide, not just to renew the decor, but to replace those familiar ‘household goods’ with which www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

When choosing furniture, yet more considerations come into play. It must look right of course. It must be of a quality that will withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. It must not cost more than one can afford and, whether it is seating or a bed, it must definitely be comfortable. Good furniture in the shops today is a cunning integration of technology and craftsmanship. It is made from a variety of the finest woods and man-made materials where appropriate. It is built to last, to give years of hard service and, a lot of it is destined to be the collectors’ antiques of tomorrow.

drapes then seal off the outside world with a matching blind. You have the choice too of who makes up your soft furnishings. Your fabric supplier may be able to organise the job, or you can call

in an outside contractor or, you can be very brave and clever, and do the whole thing yourself. Whatever you choose however, you can be sure of two things. It won’t cost as much as you might imagine and, it will be worth every penny!

Built-in furniture is still a popular innovation, especially in bedrooms and kitchens. However, there is a concerted move back to freestanding pieces, and the most upto-date homes are furnished with a subtle combination of the two. Woods in use reflect a rising anxiety for the tropical forests that once gave us our furnishing timbers. Now the mode is for the homegrown, renewable stocks, such as walnut, beech, oak, apple, pear, pine and yew. Once again we are discovering the beauty of our home-grown timbers and displaying them at their best in our homes. When it comes to beds however, technology has really taken over. Beds are designed to support the wide variety of body sizes, and personal tastes found in the population at large. Beds are designed to help with physical problems such as arthritis and general back problems. It is now possible for a couple to share a double bed in which one side is of a different degree of softness to the other. Materials used in today’s beds include traditional flock, foams of various types, and spring interiors of immense complexity, so there is truly something to suit everyone. If you are looking for new furniture and furnishing fabrics, you won’t have to search too far afield to find a bewildering choice. Your only problem will be, not seeking for what you would like, but discarding what you don’t because, it’s pretty certain, you’ll probably like all you see!

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

FLAMING FIRES, FIREPLACES & STOVES

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FINDING HAPPINESS I recently interviewed fellow author Dr Robert Holden for an event I’m running later in the year. Robert works in the field of positive psychology and well-being and has written many books on the subject, one of which is called ‘Happiness Now’.

NOW!

We were talking about how we look for happiness in all the wrong places, mainly in the material world – food, clothes, gadgets and so on. We believe that the things we’re taught to covert are the things that will bring us lasting joy and happiness. Yet they often don’t. We may get a temporary fleeting high, but it quickly wears off leaving us with that all too familiar void inside. We are in an endless cycle of chasing happiness. How do we end this fruitless cycle? Robert shared something that really hit home. He said that happiness doesn’t come from the outside world; happiness is in fact an inside job! Every person that finds real happiness in life at some point made a decision to be happy. Happiness is simply a decision we all have to make. We can look at some of the poorest povertystricken families in the world, yet they seem to find joy and happiness in their daily lives. Happiness doesn’t come from outside of ourselves it comes from within. It’s a mindset shift. It’s a decision that no matter what is going on around us, you choose to look for happiness. Here are three ideas to shift your mindset this year…

Create Your Gratitude Jar. I love this idea. Happiness and gratitude is quite simply a state of mind, so in order to help you rewire your thinking why not create a ‘Gratitude Jar’. Find yourself a nice big jar or even a small fish bowl. Each day on a small piece of paper write just one thing you’re grateful for. This could be the Sainsbury’s deliveryman, the socks on your feet or the sausage and mash you’ve just eaten for your dinner. Just write down one thing each day and pop it in your jar. This simple act is training your brain to find happiness. Over time you will start to notice more and more things to be grateful for. Plus, at the end of the year you’ll have 365 notes of gratitude to enjoy!

Learn to meditate. For hundreds of years, meditation was an exclusively spiritual practice for serious seekers. Yet, meditation is becoming more and more commonplace. Everyone seems to be at it! By quieting the mind and deeply relaxing the body, the person meditating experiences deep states of inner peace and, ultimately, higher states of consciousness. But many people wrongly believe that meditating is about sitting quietly for hours on end thinking about nothing. This is not the case. Meditating is about quieting the mind in order to go inwards in search of greater self-awareness. It’s an active training of the mind to increase your awareness of self. In my own personal experience the more I take time to meditate, the more content I feel with life. No matter what is going on around you, you feel at peace. Meditation has changed my life and made me a much happier and more content person. Find out more about how to meditate in my new book Mindset Mastery. Happiness is a decision we all must make at some point in our life. So why not set the intention this year to be happy, right here, right now!

Follow Your Joy. I’m always talking about following joy in my courses and books. We are on this planet to play. Yes, we have many responsibilities, things that we simply have to do. But, we must not forget to pursue our joy, because this is our happiness. Find time each day or week to do things that you really enjoy; walking in nature, singing, baking, chatting over coffee with friends, taking a bubble bath, watching clouds drift buy, painting, playing games with the kids, exercise, sewing and so on. Make time to follow your joy and you will become a happier person! 14

Louise Presley-Turner is a Personal Growth Expert and Author of two books. Louise’s unique style of coaching has produced some amazing results, helping people to define their goals and turn their lives around with amazing success. Get your FREE life evaluator and life planner now.

visit www.thegameoflife.co.uk town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Quality, bespoke creations with an exceptional service! PVC Windows PVC Doors Conservatories Roofline Extensions Folding Sliding Doors Repairs Orangeries Timber Composite Doors

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Quick Crossword Down 1 Swap (6) 2 Type of fruit (5) 3 Adult (5-2) 5 Incorrect (5) 6 Relating to healing (7) 7 Saunter (6) 8 Substitute (11) 14 Apparent (7) 15 Reckon (7) 16 Cared for (6) 17 Shouted (6) 19 Overweight (5) 21 Transport (5)

Across 1 Unkempt (6) 4 Bogs (6) 9 Get better (7) 10 Command (5) 11 Not dirty (5) 12 Rational (7) 13 Honourable (11) 18 Consistent (7) 20 Hoard (5) 22 Blockade (5) 23 Impartial (7) 24 Tasks (6) 25 Remained (6)

Sudoku

Easy

Hard

Puzzle answers on page 114

Word Search Find the words below in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a phrase.

Amused

Joyous

Annoyed

Pride

Anxious Caring

Sad

Contemptuous Serenity Content Dislike Doubtful

Shock

Envy

Sulky

Glum

Sullen

Greed Guilt

Shame

Terrified

Hatred

Tranquil

Horror

Wary town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

WINDOWS, ORANGERIES & CONSERVATORIES

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Future-proofing the bathroom

without compromising on style There are also solutions for shower lovers too. Low-level shower trays look exactly like any other, but without the ‘lip’ – this provides fantastic easy access, especially if a wheelchair may one day be needed. We also favour the installation of an Aquadec for future-proofing purposes. Easily fitted over wood or concrete floors, this is actually a wet deck that can be installed unobtrusively beneath a bath, usually with a shower valve above it. In later years, should it be necessary, the bath can be removed, the wet deck is already in place, and it’s just a matter of installing a shower screen or enclosure around it.

Caroline Cooper from Roman Bathrooms talks about the huge advantages of planning ahead. Putting some thought now into planning your bathroom for the future is the sensible way to avoid cost and hassle in years to come. It’s not something many people consider when they’re younger, but if you’ve found the home of your dreams – why not spend a little extra time getting it right for good, for all your future needs, rather than having to take it all out and completely refurb at a later date?

alternative for young children, older adults and everybody inbetween! Easy-access baths are another idea - specifically designed with lower sides that are easy to get in and out of, they make perfect sense and require less water. They are available in a number of different shapes and sizes and can be seen on display in our showroom.

There are so many other great ideas out there on the market do feel free to call or pop in for some friendly advice. It could save you huge amounts of time and hard-earned cash in the future. Roman Bathrooms 110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath, Rowley Regis, West Midlands B65 0EG Tel: 0121 561 4374 info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

The Teuco walk-in combi shower/bath is extremely elegant

Ageing brings with it a host of different requirements – it’s harder to reach and bend, and infirmity sometimes means a fear of slipping, but all this can be planned for, in a stylish and functional way – years before it’s needed. I’ve watched over the years as manufacturers have wised up to the fact people want good looking pieces in their bathroom that are functional and stylish – whatever their age or needs. One great example is our Teuco bath/shower combination that’s a strong favourite with clients looking for a family-friendly bathroom. The combi-bath is not only extremely stylish, but also provides a relaxing bathing 18

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

ROMAN BAT H R O O M S • K I T C H E N S • T I L ES

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110 - 111 High Street, Blackheath B65 0EG Telephone 0121 561 4374 • email info@romanbathrooms.co.uk

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Kinver Country Fayre a feast of medieval entertainment

area by the real ale tent. Fox’s Morris will be there too, with live music from Hotfoot Jazz and the Naughty Corner. There will be dozens of stalls selling a wide range of tempting wares throughout the High Street and on the fields. Bookings are already well advanced, with local crafts people showcasing their skills. Local produce is also going to be in evidence in the fine food village and, if fayre-goers are feeling hungry during the day, there will be catering outlets to satisfy every taste.

This Father’s Day Kinver Country Fayre is going all out to bring in the crowds with one of the UK’s top jousting teams headlining the event on Sunday 21 June.

If you would like to know more about the Fayre, which has been held in Kinver for over 30 years and raises money for local charities and good causes, do get in touch. Volunteers to help with the event are always welcome, so make contact if you would like to contribute towards staging a great day for all the community.

The Knights of Middle England are well known for their fun-filled, action packed shows, with fast horses and heroic knights in colourful costumes. The Knights are made up of professional horsemen, jousters, stunt riders and actors who have numerous TV and film appearances to their credit, including Merlin, Robin Hood and The Da Vinci Code. “We are thrilled to have them on board,” said Phil Brown, one of the Fayre’s organisers. “They really do provide amazing entertainment. There will be plenty to see in the jousting arena with some truly professional shows that are going to help us celebrate the 1215 anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta”. 2015 is anniversary year – not only for the Magna Carta but also the Battle of Agincourt, so fayre-goers can expect a medieval mood. In keeping with the theme, Hagley Falconry Centre will be showcasing their magnificent birds of prey during the day. Wynndebagge, the medieval minstrel, will be entertaining the crowds with tale-telling, comedy, music and song. Of course, there will be many of the Fayre’s firm favourites such as the heavy horses, vintage vehicles – this year with the focus on motorcycles - the fun dog show, children’s attractions and dance displays. Belly Fusion will again be performing their unique style of tribal belly dance on The Boards performance

www.kinvercountryfayre.com

Email info@kinvercountryfayre.com Follow us #kinverfayre Like us /kinvercountryfayre 20

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

LOVE YOUR HOME

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By Rob Taylor

Biking to Bromsgrove until its collapse in May 2005. But the town is still home to LG Harris, a paint brush manufacturer. Recent additions like the business parks in Aston Fields and Buntsford Hill have bolstered the local economy, so too have newer developments such as Saxon and Harris Business Park.

‘Oh, to be a Water Boatman’ I thought, as I wandered wistfully along the canalside, beside the narrowboaters; peering over the hedgerows and poking my nose through clearings to observe flora and fauna. According to the RSPB, “This brown bug lives in water. It has long hind legs, covered in hairs that it uses rather like paddles to swim. Its middle legs are slightly shorter, but its front legs are very short and are used to scoop up food and to attract mates.” But I’m not referring to the back swimming bugs I remember from my first school camping trip, but to the narrowboaters out for a day trip along the circuitous MidWorcestershire Ring of canals at Droitwich Spa. And this is not the only misunderstanding: apparently the sands of time has done much to foggy my memory, because not all Water Boatmen swim on their backs, only the Greater Water Boatmen. However, Backswimmers another creature entirely that just happen to look very similar to Water Boatmen - resolutely do and are carnivorous, eating tadpoles and insects. I bet they were the little critters I excitedly scooped up from the pond and unceremoniously dumped into my bucket, ready for further 22

study all those years ago. So with that cleared up, I’ll continue my Sunday afternoon jaunt. Droitwich Spa is just south of Bromsgrove and it is where I am heading to next, meandering leisurely along the towpath on my 21-speed Shimano steed, passing the over Body Brook, cruising by Stoke Prior Sports and Country Club, pausing for a pint at the Queen’s Head, Stoke Pound, before heading into Bromsgrove proper. And boy is there plenty to do once in the town. However, not everyone need arrive here by bike or barge. Located beside junctions of both M5 and M42, just 14 miles south-west of Birmingham, Bromsgrove is classic commuter-belt, close enough to the metropolis, but not of the metropolis. Manufacturing, retail and services are traditionally the biggest sectors of employment. MG Rover – now reborn and in Chinese custody - was a major employer of Bromsgrove residents

Formerly the epicentre of the wool trade during the Middle Ages, Bromsgrove was famous for the production of cloth, particularly narrow cloth and friezes. However this industry went into decline by the 1700s, just as another fledgling industry was taking off: nail making. First introduced by the French Huegenots in the 17th century it became a thriving industry and at one point Bromsgrove was leading the world. That is until mechanisation sounded the death knell. But not everyone in the town made their living in such fashion; many had to survive the rigours of the workhouse. Bromsgrove had a parish workhouse from 1723 located on the Strand. The building, which was built as a private house in 1701, still survives and has now been converted into offices. In 1776, it could accommodate up to 100 inmates. In 1841 Bromsgrove Railway Works was established. It was primarily a maintenance facility but it also built steam locomotives. But in 1964, following a reorganisation of railway workshops it closed and was demolished. The site is now a housing estate. One of the turntable pits still remains though, as a window into a forgotten era. Just like life on the waterways.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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Law firm comes to

Kinver West Midlands based law firm, Thursfields, has opened an office on Kinver high street.

The firm which employs over a hundred staff throughout the region has partnered with Sanlam Financial Advisors to provide local residents and businesses with a ‘one-stop’ office to provide legal and financial services. Thursfields solicitor and Kinver resident Sarah Mason identified that there was a pressing need for a high street solicitors to provide a complete range of legal services to both private clients and commercial organisations. She added ‘I am proud as a Kinver resident to head up Thursfields ambitious plans to

Photos courtesy of Daniel James Photography, www.danieljamesphotography.net

grow its business in Kinver, we will be able to provide “on the spot professional advice’’ which will save local people significant time and money from having to travel further afield to get legal advice on their personal and business needs.’ Thursfields has dedicated Private Client and Commercial Teams that provides advice on a full range of legal issues from will writing through to complex commercial acquisitions. Shane Miller, Director stated that “our impressive combination of technical skill and customer focused service will

Graham Kilkelly of Sanlam and Gavin Williamson

enable residents and businesses in the Kinver area to benefit from a dedicated local service.” She added that “the company has experts from all areas of law at Thursfields providing a comprehensive and holistic service to its clients.” Thursfields under the leadership of Managing Director Nick O’Hara has an already extended its branch network over the last 12 months with its new Halesowen office creating a turnover of over a million pounds. The company has ambitious growth plans of over 25% over the course of 2015. “This proves that our business model and total focus on customer satisfaction allows us to grow in a very competitive environment, we have identified Kinver as a strategic location and having someone like Sarah Mason as our representative is a significant asset to our profile in this community.” Nick added “On Friday we were delighted to welcome Gavin Williamson MP to officially open our premises; the turnout from local business and people has been incredible. We’ve already started to receive a substantial amount of enquires and dealt with issues relating to businesses and private clients, the office is going to be a great success and Kinver is a great place to do business.” Thursfields are extremely proud of this new venture and the capacity to identify opportunities. Thursfields prides itself on its lawyers having the knowledge, integrity and expertise for all its clients.

Graham Kilkelly of Sanlam, Gavin Williamson, Michelle Hetheridge of Thursfields, Edward Kimpton of Sanlam, Sarah Mason of Thursfields, Nick O’Hara of Thursfields

Thursfields Kinver can be contacted by calling 01384 883415 or 01562 825575 or e-mail: smason@thursfields.co.uk or at 85 The High Street, Kinver.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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Stourbridge

RFC The performances of our First XV continue to provide their supporters with a roller coaster ride.

An excellent performance against relatively high flying Chester at home was followed by an indifferent performance against Luctonians away in the last game before Christmas. The first games in the New Year were equally frustrating for supporters and management alike with two sides completing their double over us for the first time. A spirited performance away at Caldy saw victory snatched from our grasp in the dying minutes. A win at home against Hull gave us a platform to build upon and which saw us push Otley to the wire in an exciting game at the end of last month. February was ushered in with a win against local Coventry side Broadstreet. Injuries within the First XV squad have provided the opportunity for players from our amateur side, Stourbridge Lions to show their mettle and step up to higher level and further promote the link between both Clubs. Our social scene continues to provide value for money for those that support such events. A recent comedy night was well attended with comedians from Birmingham and the Black Country tapping into local humour. Shaun Vegas entertained a small but enthusiastic

audience with his unique blend of Elvis material and humour… all for a tenner with a hot pork bap and potato wedges to boot! The opening game of the Six Nations competition saw a full house cheer England on to victory helped by one of our chefs fantastic curries. A similar event is planned for England v. France on March 21st. Keep your eye on our website for details. Our members will welcome ex England star Martin Corry to our Debenture Club dinner in March. It is rumoured Martin played at the Cub….when he was seven!! Preparations are well in hand for our main events of the social year, namely our Corporate Lunch and May Ball on the 8th and 9th May respectively. Speakers for the lunch are being finalised as this is going to print. The Master of Ceremonies will again be the ebullient John Bentley. Full details of both events are available on the website and from the office and bookings are already being taken. Get yours in now to avoid disappointment!

The excellent menus devised and presented by Glen, our chef, continue to tempt supporters to our pre-match lunches and which in my humble opinion remain the best in this league. Not surprisingly they sell out quickly so if you are keen to tickle your taste buds please book early with the club office to avoid disappointment. Our amateur sides, Lions, Hounds and Hoppers continue to enjoy their rugby in the lower, but just as competitive, leagues. The Mini and Junior sides ensure Sunday mornings remain a busy time for moms and dads and team coaches and managers with home and away fixtures. Those not yet old enough to play matches continue to swell the numbers of “Micros” who enjoy a run about with the emphasis on fun. The Club continues to host many local celebratory events with weddings, christenings and birthday and anniversary parties making the most of our excellent facilities. We now have a specific wedding brochure for those seeking to hire our venue and which is available for collection or despatch from the Club office So plenty of dates for your diaries and for all of the above events please call Lin in the club office on 01384 39500 or access the Club website for details and contact numbers.

Carl Wythes

T: 01384 395000 E: rugby@stourbridgerugby.com www.stourbridgerugby.com 28

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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New group offers support to

local Grandparents

A new group is offering support and advice to Black Country grandparents who may have lost contact with their grandchildren. The UK has more than 14 million grandparents, the majority of whom enjoy close relationships with their grandchildren. However it is estimated that over one million children are denied contact with their grandparents, often due to divorce or similar breakdown of family relationships. The Grandparent’s Association is hoping its new group will offer support to those affected by this growing problem. The first meeting of the group is taking place in Kingswinford on 26th February. “Over the years The Grandparents’ Association has demonstrated the value of support groups for grandparents sharing their stories about loss of contact and also sharing tips on how to take the first step to resolve the situation whilst being with others who have been through the same, painful experiences,” comments Lynn Chesterman, Chief Executive of The Grandparents’ Association. The support group which is set to meet every last Thursday of the month will be a place where grandparents affected by family conflict can meet up to discuss their problems with others who may have had similar experiences. The group will be run by Hannah Nicholls, a family lawyer 30

working as a volunteer for The Grandparents’ Association who will be on hand to offer support. “Unfortunately when parents split up there are occasions when grandparents are also affected and are prevented from seeing their grandchildren. The results can be devastating for all those involved,” she explains. “If a grandparent is concerned that they are being prevented from spending time with a grandchild, there are a number of options available.” “Grandparents play a vital role in a child’s life and the courts’ recognise this. Provisions such as a ‘Child Arrangements Order’ may sound daunting, but they could be something to consider where other routes have failed to help.” The first meeting of the Grandparents Support Group will take place on Thursday 26 February between 10.30am - 12.30pm at Kingswinford Community Centre, High Street, Kingswinford, DY6 8AP. Subsequent meetings will take place every last Thursday of the month. The group is free to anyone who would like to come along. Tea, coffee, cake and refreshments will be available. For further information please contact Hannah Nicholls on 01384 327162 or email: hannah.nicholls@higgsandsons.co.uk The Grandparents’ Association can be contacted via its head office on: 01279 428 040. town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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Castle Blinds and Awnings From their newly extended and refurbished showroom, the team at Castle Blinds and Awnings Limited has just launched a fantastic range of affordable Motorised Blinds and Vision Blinds. Motorised Blinds are designed to eliminate loop cords - which pose a hazard to small children when not fitted with a safety device Managing Director, Brian Jones explains: “Safety has always been our number one priority, we’re a member of the BBSA (British Blinds and Shutter Association) and fully accredited by the Make it Safe Campaign, that’s why we’ve always wanted to highlight potential risks posed by loop cords and ensured our blinds are fitted with the best safety devices.” “Motorised Blinds don’t require a cord at all. They’re battery operated or rechargeable and are available at a very affordable price. A motorised unit can be fitted to both Roller Blinds and Vision Blinds” Vision Blinds are an innovative new product that allows you to control the amount of light and privacy in your home easily. And thanks to their unique design, Vision Blinds make controlling the light levels in your room so easy: Brian adds “The system uses a dual fabric layer with alternating mesh and fabric panels that can be easily adjusted to control privacy and light levels, in a similar way to Vertical or Venetian blinds

but it can also be rolled fully or partly up, just like a roller blind.” It’s not only Vision Blinds that are new at Castle, there’s a fantastic New 2015 range of fabrics to add to an already extensive range for you to choose from. Of course, it’s not only blinds that the company takes care of they also supply awnings, plantation shutters and parasols. “We can meet any domestic or commercial requirements easily because we manufacture all of our blinds and awnings here in the Black Country. By manufacturing our own products, we’re able to ensure the highest standards of quality and keep our pricing extremely competitive.”

“Every one of our blinds and awnings comes with a 5 year guarantee.” A friendly and knowledgeable sales team works from the showroom and are on-hand to offer guidance and advice, but there’s also the option to request a free home visit: “Customers are welcome to make arrangements for a free home visit. A member of our team will call to see you and assist with choosing the right fabric and leave a no obligation quotation.” When it comes to fitting, Castle Blinds and Awnings only use their trusted, fully qualified inhouse team of fitters to install their blinds and awnings. Give the team a call today and transform your home or office with a fantastic new set of blinds.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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By Michael Peter Whitehurst Email: mike@takefood.co.uk

Recipe of the month

Serves 4 people

A ‘healthier’ Spaghetti Bolognaise / Chilli Con Quorni EQUIPMENT • 2 large pans - 1 for boiling pasta and 1 for slow cooking sauce • 1 baking sheet / tray • A good cooks knife • Fine grater • Chopping board - I use a good solid thick wooden board - get one and a good knife, it will change your life. INGREDIENTS • 1 pack of Quorn 350g • 1 kilo of fresh vine tomatoes • 2 medium carrots • 2 medium onions • 4 cloves of garlic • Marmite • 1 jar of Sun dried tomato pesto • 1 tube of sun dried tomato paste / puree • Gravy granules (bisto) • Fresh thyme and rosemary • Sea salt • Black peppercorns • 2 measures of Wholewheat spaghetti • Rapeseed oil • Parmesan • Watercress • Balsamic syrup • Red kidney beans • Fresh red chilli • A pinch of cinnamon • 1 jar of roasted red peppers • 2 measures of brown rice INTRO Being as this is the one dish that almost everybody has in their repertoire I thought I would give you an alternative method and ingredient list for making it. If you have been thinking about taking red meat out of your diet or at least cutting right back then this is a great alternative. It is meat free, gluten free, high in protein and fibre and low in calories. Sea salt has slightly lower levels of sodium too but 34

I’m not making any claims - it’s hard enough to know whats good and bad for you these days. METHOD Lay the Quorn out on your baking tray and cook in the oven on 180oC for 15 minutes to brown. While this is happening dice your onions and garlic and soften in a dash of rapeseed oil on a medium heat in one of your pans with the carrots either diced finely or grated and the thyme leaves carefully picked off the stalks (or throw the stalks in and pick out later). Once your onions and carrots have softened dice up the tomatoes and throw in the pan - allow to cook off for about 20 minutes on low to medium heat until the tomatoes start to break down. (While the tomatoes are cooking down get the other pan on and cook the pasta and cool down in cold water, set aside until your sauce is ready). Add a tablespoon of marmite and season with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato pesto and puree and pour in about 1 litre of water. The most important part of making a sauce is allowing plenty of time to simmer the pan until the water evaporates leaving the ingredients well softened with the flavours developed (keep adding more water and simmering if vegetables aren't soft enough) I only use bisto as an emergency if the sauce is just a little thin and needs a quick helping hand to thicken up at the last minute. You can rub equal amounts of flour and butter together to produce what is known as a beurre manie - this will thicken your sauce also. Once the sauce is ready put your pasta in your empty pan and spoon in enough Bolognese sauce to coat the pasta. Spoon onto your plates and grate some parmesan cheese over. Serve this with watercress and drizzle over some balsamic syrup. With the sauce you have left over put it back on the heat and add in the tin of kidney beans, pinch of cinnamon, sliced chilli and diced roasted peppers. Allow to cool and store in your fridge for up a few days then re-heat thoroughly to over 75˚C to serve with brown rice and soured cream. town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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Colours to command attention

Doorsmart

There’s nothing more important than making a good first impression, so why do so many of us overlook our front door? It not only serves to enhance the look of our property, making it appear well-looked after, cared for and attractive, but also provides security and peace-of-mind.

so that homeowners can get a chance to see - and purchase - our wide variety of composite doors.”

Doorsmart’s doors offer outstanding insulation, weather resistance and high durability, with very little maintenance required. “Although modern composite doors are constructed of many varied materials, there’s only ours that provide the look and feel of timber.”

In fact, property experts have often remarked on the importance of fitting a smart, secure-looking door as a quick and easy way to add value to your home - whether you’re planning on selling-up or not.

The Doorsmart range has all the qualities of wood, like decorative graining and attractive depression mouldings, and there’s an endless choice of colour options to choose from.

When it comes to choosing the right entrance for your home though, there’s plenty of things to consider; it needs to be strong, secure, durable and of course, good looking.

“We introduce colour into the fiberglass during manufacture, making a unique through colour facing, which is highly durable it’s truly a door for the future.”

It’s good to know then, that local composite door specialists, Doorsmart are on-hand to help you find the door that’s perfect for you.

The Doorsmart range boasts 32 standard door designs that can be chosen in seven standard colours, but for those who want something a little more individual there’s the Doorsmart Extensive Rainbow Range.

Owner Craig Broadley explains: “We’ve been manufacturers of composite doors for many years, utilising the latest in composite door technology to offer our customers the very best in design and quality.” “Although we’ve traditionally supplied to the trade only, we’ve recently opened-up a brand new showroom at our Park Lane site,

“We’ve recognised that some of our customers might want something that bit different, so with a standard BS or RAL colour code, we can make your door any colour you want.” There’s plenty of glass designs and door furniture to choose from too: “We have a number of glass

designs that feature both subtle and statement patterns in many colours and styles. We also have many options in privacy and obscure glass.” And what’s more, the team will always try to accommodate the customer’s own designs or requirements. An impressive range of striking ancillaries, door handles, knockers and letter plates allow you to add those all-important finishes to your door. It’s not all about looks at Doorsmart though; the company’s products feature excellent safety and security. Which is just as well as statistics show that a property is burgled every minute in the United Kingdom. “With a 44mm thick composite door, reinforced door outer-frame and secured by design locking options, we offer the most secure door option available in the residential sector.” There certainly is no better peace-ofmind than knowing your family, home and belongings are well protected. Contact the Doorsmart team today to make sure that your home makes the right first impression.

Doorsmart can mix and match any colour and any glass 36

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Competition Three lucky winners can each win two tickets to see THE GHOST TRAIN on Tuesday 7th April at 7.30pm at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. The Ghost Train pulls into Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on Tuesday 7th and departs on Saturday 11th April. A spooky tail not to be missed in this new production of Arnold Ridley’s classic comedy thriller about a group of travellers stranded at an isolated railway station. On a dark and stormy night a number of fellow passengers find themselves thrown together in the waiting room of a rural train station. A pair of newlyweds, an estranged couple, a selfindulgent young dandy and an elderly spinster (who also happens to be accompanied by a parrot) are treated to the stationmaster’s unique hospitality, which includes an eerie tale of a ghostly locomotive that supposedly haunts the line. Can the story be true - and should they be alarmed by his grim warning of death to anyone who sets eyes on the infamous Ghost Train...? Arnold Ridley was inspired to write THE GHOST TRAIN after becoming stranded overnight at Mangotsfield station near Bristol. He was perhaps best known for playing Private Godfrey in the classic BBC comedy Dad’s Army, and the cast for this new production of his best known play will also feature some familiar comedy faces from the stage and TV

To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and send it on a postcard with your name, address and telephone number to Town & Village Life magazine at the address below or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk before Tuesday March 24th 2015. Arnold Ridley was in which BBC Comedy? a) Allo! Allo! b) Dads Army c) Hi Di Hi d) Just Good Friends Competition Terms and Conditions

Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 42 92 12 or please visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk 38

Please post all entries to Town & Village Life magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY or email info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk. To be received no later than Tuesday 24th March 2015. Winners to collect tickets from the Box Office on the evening of the performance. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available. Entries will be forwarded to the Grand Theatre unless otherwise stated. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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THE GARDEN

IN MARCH

Normally one would probably be safe in predicting that March would be a changeable month with below zero temperatures followed by minor heat waves, with torrential rain, snow perhaps, long droughts and high winds. In short, something of everything. But with the past three wet months who knows what this March will bring weather-wise. The best course is to be ready for anything, especially the worst. So have lots of mobile protection ready because those buds that have been tempted into early action because if the month is unseasonably mild, may not be able to cope with frosts later on. It is the case that you should be guided at this time of year by the weather rather than the calendar. Prepare for planting out by all means but hold fire till you are quite sure of what might happen and,

have as many cloches and movable frames to hand as you can muster. When the ground is not waterlogged or frozen, you can start to work on those areas you left rough dug last backend. Whack the larger clods with the back of the spade, they should break up easily. Rake over the area several times till you have a fine tilth. On light soils there should be no problems. On heavy clays however, you will have to use your judgement. Do it when the soil is too damp and you’ll have a sticky mess on the spade or fork. Do it when the ground is bone dry and you’ll find yourself hammering at ‘bricks‘. Don’t put too much into this cultivation. March is too late for deep digging. All you are interested in are the top two or three inches, no more. You can work well rotted manure or mature compost together with a compound fertiliser but make sure it’s all incorporated well into the soil, then firm down the earth and rake over the top to leave it fine and level. Whatever you do, don’t start sowing till the soil temperature is at least 13 degrees centigrade (55 degrees F). It’s worth investing in a soil thermometer. You check the temperature early morning and in the evening, and go by the average temperature. Bear in mind that light, sandy soils heat up faster than heavy clays, but they also cool down a great deal faster. Successful sowing depends on the speed of germination. The best plants come from fast germination. Seeds require warmth, moisture

and air to germinate. The trick is to plant them deep enough to get air and protection, but not so shallow that they dry out. Follow the instructions on the pack carefully. Very tiny seeds that are scattered on sandy, light soils may be covered lightly with moist peat, leaf mould or old compost (spent grow-bag contents for example that has been shaken through a sieve). On heavy, easily saturated soils use perlite, vermiculite or sharp sand. It is a good plan to dress seeds before sowing. Do this by shaking them with a small quantity of fungicidal/insecticidal powder. This prevents many of the soil-borne infections like damping-off, foot-rot and soil-dwelling insect pests like flea beetles and wire worms, from destroying them before they germinate or even afterwards. Start to plan the fertilisers you will need to boost your garden’s growth. Plants require 12 essential minerals for growth and development. The first seven are needed in pretty large quantities; they are nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulphur and iron. The other five are required in very minute quantities but, those traces are really essential, they are manganese, boron, copper, zinc and molybdenum. No plant will grow to any sort of maturity without all of these twelve. Make sure when buying fertilisers that all of these elements are contained within the pack. However, remember always that fertilisers are not sufficient on their own. Plant growth requires the bacterial activity of decomposing organic matter, so never think the first can replace the second. Having sorted your soil, start to consider sowing some hardy annuals. In addition you can begin to plant out those seedlings you brought on in a cold greenhouse. In the vegetable garden continue to sow broad beans and second early peas. When the temperature reaches 13 degrees C on a maintained basis, you can sow brassicas, leeks, sprouts and lettuces. Sow radishes as a catch crop between peas and beans. Sow onions, carrots and spinach, turnips and parsley. This last can take up to six weeks to germinate, so do be patient.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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www.berrimaneaton.co.uk town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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Profence

Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Fencing

L/R – Andy Vaughan and Nigel Dolan (Contracts managers), Kate Scott (office manager) and owner Shane Gamble

Established for over thirty years, Profence has long been meeting the fencing requirements of domestic, commercial and industrial clients alike. Having become one of the leading companies in the trade - thanks to a commitment to excellent and efficient service in every job they undertake - the Wombournebased business has built an extensive and varied client base across the West Midlands. Owner Shane Gamble explains: “I started the company back in 1983; over the years we’ve grown and grown and are now a well-established and trusted name in the business.” “We manufacture, supply and install a range of different products which meet the requirements of each of our client’s individual needs. We’ve got palisade fences, welded mesh fences, powered gates, timber panels, picket fences, as well as close board designs too.” Working closely with a number of local authorities, Profence carry out work for various schools and colleges across the region: “We do jobs for Wolverhampton, Walsall, Cannock and Dudley Councils, which means that we 44

are contracted to work on all manner of different institutions.”

services for companies who are interested in responsible forestry.”

And that’s not all: “We work with all types of property and buildings, and we offer advice throughout the design and installation stages to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”

“We want to ensure that we’re doing our part in helping to protect forests, by sourcing wood that comes from sustainable sources.”

Shane places a great emphasis on ensuring that all of his team are fully trained, so that they can offer the best levels of service to his customers. “I employ 40 members of staff and they are all experienced in their role. Our clients can rest assured that they are receiving the best service. We offer free no-obligation quotations, guarantee all of our work and never ask for money up-front.” It’s not only providing great customer service that ProFence are concerned with though. The company take great care to ensure that the products they use are sourced responsibly, that’s why they’re proud to be FSC certified. Kate Scott, Shane’s daughter and Office Manager at ProFence explains: “The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international network designed to promote responsible management of the world’s forests. It provides standard setting, trademark assurance and accreditation

ProFence also hold Chain of Custody (COC) certification: “COC certification provides independent evidence that forest products originate from well-managed forests. It helps consumers and businesses make informed decisions about the timber products they buy.” And, the entire ProFence team work together to ensure that the chain of custody process runs smoothly. “We only buy from companies that can supply FSC timber, when it arrives we check it has all of the correct paperwork, so that when our customers ask for FSC products we can ensure their delivery notes and invoices include our COC code.” It’s values like these that set ProFence apart from the competition. Whatever plans you’ve got in mind for your garden fencing, contact the team today to make your plans a reality and enjoy the excellent service ProFence has to offer.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Manufacturers, Suppliers & Installers of all types of domestic and commercial fencing and gates. • 30 Years’ Experience • Free Quotations • Local Authority Approved • Competitive Prices • Insurance Work Undertaken • Metal or Wood Fencing & Gates • All work guaranteed

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www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Enjoy a wellness boost with

JACuZZi®

The Jacuzzi® brand is world renowned and encompasses years of cutting edge design and technology.

The first Jacuzzi® hot tub was created in 1956 when Candido Jacuzzi designed a hydrotherapy pump for his son, who was suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Since then, the brand has developed beyond belief and the technology has flourished with it. The four pillars of the brand are design, health, pleasure and performance and we take great pride in knowing that each of our hot tubs are designed with this in mind, always striving to ensure that our customers will enjoy the great health benefits that come from buying a Jacuzzi® hot tub.

Our latest J-300 range is a fantastic testament to our ongoing dedication to developing our hot tubs. The position and power of the jets on this range have been enhanced to provide an even more effective hydromassage at the key nerve centres of the back and lumbar region. Jets have also been placed higher up in the seats for a great neck and shoulder massage, also allowing the jets to target specific areas. All these elements combined together help to generate a relaxing atmosphere and general feeling of wellbeing, relieving the stress from your day.

The technology we use has been proven as genuine hydrotherapy, meaning a Jacuzzi® hot tub is of the finest quality, not just a regular hot tub. Our customers come to us for this reason,

knowing our products can genuinely help with the aches and pains caused by everyday life, so we take our dedication to hydrotherapy very seriously. Your local Jacuzzi® Hydrotherapy Centre is based at Webbs Garden Centre where Jen, Natalie & Emma are on hand seven days a week to answer your questions and show you our fantastic range of hot tubs. They also have a wet test area so if you’d like to get the true “try before you buy” experience then bring your bathing suits and come and have a dip! Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Centre Webbs Garden Centres, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa WR9 0DG

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Leave it to the experts to create your

GARDEN PARADISE

Have a look out of the window now and take a long, hard look at your garden. What are you thinking? Are you excited about what the spring is bringing to your borders? Or are you perhaps looking at a blank canvas, knowing that it has so much more potential, but after a long hard week just cannot muster the enthusiasm to do anything.

By Steve Tonks General Manager at Boningale Garden Creations

horticultural specialists, gardeners and project management team, who led by General Manager Steve Tonks oversee and manage the project from start to finish, you can be assured of expert advice every step of the way.

If it’s the latter, you might be thinking about using the help of a professional garden design company, one that can offer trusted advice and take the headache and stress away.

When you commit to making an investment in your garden, this depth of technical and creative expertise is important. When designing a garden it’s not just about which plants should go where; it’s about the ingenious use of materials, clever design to maximise the available space, and a detailed examination of how you use (or want to use) your garden.

budget – you’ll get the right plant in the right place and there will be no expensive mistakes when it comes to buying the wrong kind of landscaping materials.

No matter how big or small your outside space, the keen eyes of our experts can help you transform your garden ready for the summer. From our award winning garden design associate, Andi Way, to our

This attention to detail at the planning stage will also actually save you money in the long term, because you will get a welldesigned garden that immediately suits your needs in line with your

Boningale Garden Creations is based at Boningale’s wholesale plant nursery in Albrighton, near Wolverhampton, and is a member of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL).

For further information and ideas, visit www.boningale-garden-creations.co.uk

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@boningalegarden

sweeps up

mark with new business Mark Yeomans has recently launched Wilkins Chimney Sweep Halesowen and Kidderminster, servicing Halesowen, Stourbridge, Kidderminster and all surrounding villages. The chimney sweeping sector is seeing somewhat of a boom as more people install wood burning stoves in their homes, in an effort to save on costly fuel bills. Additionally, in April the Government launched the Renewable Heat Incentive, which pays households that generate and use renewable energy to heat their buildings, e.g. by using a woodfired, bio-mass boiler. Keeping the chimneys of open fires, wood

TRADITIONAL BRUSH & VACUUM

burners and range ovens clean and free from blockages is crucial to avoid chimney fires and possible carbon monoxide poisoning. In a marked difference to the automotive industry Mark previously worked in, his new career will give him the opportunity to work directly with customers in their own homes, which he says he finds more rewarding. For customer safety Mark is fully insured and police-checked.

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Get ready for the growing

seAsoN

Tips ar e provided by Ann Winwood, Lealans Garden Centr e, Wolverhampton

flowering bedding plants as well to encourage more flowers. Snowdrops can be split at this time of year into smaller clumps.

The weather has not been too severe in our part of the Midlands so far with only nights of cold frosts, but beware of sharps frosts in March and April that will spoil vulnerable plants and soft shoots - have some fleece handy and check the weather forecasts, if we’re likely to get a frost put the fleece over the tops of plants to protect them. Dead head bulbs particularly daffodils, leaving the green foliage on and top dress with fertilizer, they’ll send the food back to the bulb and you’ll get a better display of flowers next year. Remember to dead head spring

Many of the summer flowering bulbs and tubers can be planted outside as the weather warms up – Lilies and Gladioli. Always plant lily bulbs on their side so that water doesn’t lie in the scales and cause them to rot. Dahlias can be started off in pots inside then planted out once the danger of frosts has receded. Begonias should be pressed gently into potting compost, curved side down – never completely covered, water and keep on a light sunny windowsill or in a heated greenhouse. Remove any old growth from perennials and divide if required.

Slugs and snails love young herbaceous shoots, especially in damp conditions. Use a liquid slug killer, pellets to deter them. The new Slug Gone from Vitax is an excellent deterrent and proved to be very popular last year. Plug plants are now appearing in garden centres, pot them up into larger pots and keep them warm and in a sunny position. Don’t be tempted to leave them outside at the moment – the end of May is plenty soon enough. Mothering Sunday is March 15th this year – early enough for there still to be plenty of Primroses and early spring flowers available – we’ll have a good selection of planted arrangements and houseplants in stock for that very special lady.

Lealans Garden Centre is situated at Shipley, on the Bridgnorth Road. For more information visit www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk, email enquiries@lealansgardencentre.co.uk or phone 01902 700209.

OPEN DAILY

Tel 01902 700209 Full range of plug plants now in stock Lealans own brand compost – 80 litre bags, still only £12.00 for 3 bags Don`t forget Mothering Sunday on 15th March – we have a large range of plants and gift ideas to choose from Huge range of top quality shrubs, trees, roses, alpines and herbaceous plants always in stock

Lealans Garden Centre Bridgnorth Road, Shipley, Pattingham, Wolverhampton WV6 7EZ www.lealansgardencentre.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

The Rotary Club of Stourbridge Young Orators Excel Eight teams of students from schools in the Stourbridge area demonstrated their presentation skills in the local heat of Youth Speaks, a competition, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Stourbridge, on 29th January 2015 in the Main Hall at King Edward VI College. The teams spoke to themes of their own choice to an audience comprising students, their parents and teachers from Haybridge High School, King Edward VI Sixth Form College, Old Swinford Hospital School, Pedmore Technology College and Redhill School and swelled by members of Stourbridge Rotary Club. The judges were from the Rotary Club and Stourbridge Speakers Club. Each team comprised a chairperson who introduced the team and the topic, a speaker who presented the subject and a proposer of the vote of thanks who brought the team performance to a conclusion. The winners in the Intermediate category (11-13 years) were Aimee Erb, Skye Warwicker and Georgia

Phillips from Redhill School - their topic was ‘‘Uniformed Generation’’. In the Senior section, (14-17 years) George Glasby, Manraj Sanghera & Ben Phillips swept to first place on the subject of ‘’Young People have Nothing to Live for.’

RIBI recognises that public speaking is an extremely important life skill - one that Rotarians value and of course one of Rotary’s objectives is to encourage, support and celebrate the expertise of young people.

As winners of this heat the two teams will now go forward to the District round of this national competition which is run by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland [RIBI].

President of the Rotary Club of Stourbridge, Arthur Baker, who chaired the panel of judges, said “Rotary is pleased to be able to host competitions for young people and my fellow judges [Shelley Jackson-Woodall and David Wike from Stourbridge Speakers Club] and I were very impressed with their courage in taking to the stage and the high standard of their presentations - they were a credit to their schools, their teachers and their parents”. He added “In addition to the Youth Speaks initiative, Stourbridge Rotary Club has already sponsored the ‘Young Chef’ competition late last year, Young Musician early in January and plans are well advanced for the ‘Young Photographer’ challenge in a month or so. We now look forward to the possibility of our worthy winners progressing further in the competition.’’

For further information contact John Savage on 01384 372419 or Paul Thatcher on 01562 883735 50

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Vet health check

By Brian Hogan MRCVS MVB Cert SAS Clinical Director, Blacks Vets

right vet to take the best care of your pet and watch your pocket too:

Vet Health Check List 1. Check that they are RCVS registered - A vet must be registered with The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in order to practice in the UK.

4. Operative expertise - all vets will offer basic surgery but what if additional expertise is needed with operating theatres designed for bone surgery for example? Or if surgery can be avoided altogether by using a wide range of endoscopes with different sizes for different pets meaning no incision is needed which is better for your pet?

2. 24/7 care 365 days a year - check this thoroughly:

Well, we were absolutely thrilled to find out yesterday that Blacks Vets had been voted Best UK Vet by the pet owning public. The team here work incredibly hard in our Accredited Veterinary Hospital, staffed by our own nurses and vets 24/7, 365 days a year, to meet the needs of our clients, constantly striving to improve pet care in our local area. To be recognised by our clients for the veterinary care, surgical and referral work we do, as well as the day to day preventative care in our Healthy Pet Club means everything to us. We are so very privileged to have fantastic clients and pets who have taken the time to nominate us, we are truly overwhelmed. So, with Spring in the air we thought we would help you take a fresh look at veterinary care and give you a few pointers when searching for the

Is there a vet available in the night from your own practice? Is this on premises you are familiar with and with the same veterinary team backed by an Accredited Veterinary Hospital in case you need it? Are your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veterinary records fully accessible? Will my pet be forced to travel between vets when critically ill if continual care is not offered when changing from night to day? What are the overnight costs? Is there intensive care and a night nurse present to assist in the care of your pet when they may need it most? Sadly many pet owners do not ask these questions until they face a worrying time in the night with accident or illness so it is better to be prepared and do your homework. And remember, you can choose your out of hours service and still stay with the same day time vet if you need to, just check that your pet does not have to be moved if seriously ill. 3. Diagnostic equipment - at the most critical time this can mean the difference between life and death where fast diagnosis is needed. It can mean better care for your pet in finding the problem quickly or sometimes lower cost if it reduces the need for a process of elimination during diagnosis.

DuDLEy HospitaL Hillcroft, Hall Street Dudley DY2 7BT t: 01384 252509

LyE surgEry 109A Pedmore Road Lye DY9 8DG t: 01384 897632

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.blacksvets.co.uk

Blacks Vets

sEDgLEy surgEry 63 Dudley Road Sedgley DY3 1TF t: 01902 670900

5. Independent Ratings check out independent client ratings such as Vet Help Direct to see what clients think of vets in their area. 6. Can they provide direct claims insurance support? - the last thing you will want to do when worrying about your poorly pet is to do battle with the paperwork of insurance claims, ask if your vet can do this for you. Sometimes it is not possible, many times it is. 7. Preventative care - does your vet offer good cost effective packages for preventative care such as flea and worm treatments, vaccinations and health checks, hopefully meaning you will need to see us less in the long term? We hope that your pets live healthy, happy long lives and only ever need to see the vet for a health check. There are some great vets out there so do your research. Remember that you have the right to choose and it is very easy to change vets and transfer records at any point in your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life if you feel that you are not getting the best care.

24/7 Emergency

01384 252509 oLDBury surgEry 152-154 Causeway Green Road B68 8LJ 0121 552 9996

Quinton surgEry 266 Ridgacre Road Quinton B32 1JR t: 0121 248 9003

51 Independently rated 5* by our local clients:

The Art of Inspiration With spring just round the corner and Mothering Sunday on 15th March, Stourbridge Galleries are featuring a new mix of stylish design- led gifts, jewellery & scarves, greeting cards, artwork and interior accessories that will make shopping there such a pleasure. This fine Victorian house is the home of a truly 21st century shopping experience, as they strive to present the best on trend collections that provide something refreshingly different, that is not always found on the High Street. Carrie Elspeth is celebrating the return of spring with a launch of a gorgeous new jewellery collection, bursting with fresh, bright ideas. Neons continue to lead the way, with rainbow metallics also making a big splash. For a softer look you can’t go wrong with pastel perfection, as feminine pinks and pretty blues make a comeback. Aviv Silver are also introducing many new designs in their organic inspired, range of sterling silver jewellery, set with semi-precious stones including opal, amethyst, black onyx, moonstone and pearls. Caroline Gardner launch their “Gift for Gardeners” this spring,

a sumptuous range for all those with green fingers, using her best selling wisteria print. It includes a garden planner, watering can, gloves and a set of tools, and, perhaps most importantly a lovely tin mug for a nice cup of tea!

New to the Galleries this season are scarves from Peony Designs. This season’s collection introduces a host of new and exquisite designs that are sure to delight. Beautiful cotton and viscose scarves in original and exclusive designs, including dogs, cats, sheep, bugs and new flowers and butterflies are of a great quality with a gorgeous soft feel and weight. Another recent arrival are greetings cards and prints ,with a retro/ nostalgic lilt, from illustrator and designer, Jill White of Rocket68. With framed prints starting at only £27.50, these would make an ideal gift for Mum on her special day. Also introduced this spring is a wonderful collection of doorstops by Dora Designs. This award winning, creative company produce a range of doorstops and draught excluders to decorate and enhance any home. Mainly based on British animals, this unique and charming collection is made from high quality fabrics and has proved highly collectable. This is only a small taste of what is currently stocked. Many brands

such as , Jo Downs Glass, candles from St Eval of Cornwall, East of India , contemporary ceramics by Dartington Pottery, the famous Terramundi money pots, irresistible soft toys by Jellycat, are stocked throughout the year. As usual the Galleries stock greetings cards, gift wrap and bags from many design-led publishers including Cinnamon Aitch, Wendy Jones Blackett, Belly Button, Art Angels, Five Dollar Shake and many more, to suit every occasion. Mothers Day, Birthdays, Weddings, Anniversaries, arrival of New Baby and many others are all available. Expect a warm welcome and something different to see each time you visit!

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Gift Shop Gallery Picture Framers

Two floors of eye catching giftware, jewellery and home accessories provides a visual treat that makes shopping here such a pleasure. To complete that perfect gift, select from a range of beautifully designed contemporary gift wrap and bags. Open: 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

Stourbridge

Galleries

58 Worcester Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1AS Tel: 01384 390170 www.stourbridgegalleries.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Step into spring at

Halfpenny Green Vineyards

Spring is finally on the way so it’s time to start to get out and about and explore our local area again and The Vineyards at Halfpenny Green is the perfect place to start.

relaxing atmosphere. Upcoming dates for these popular occasions are Friday 20th March, Friday 17th April, Friday 15th May and Friday 12th June. These evenings are very popular and tables fill up quickly so please make sure that you book in advance. Of course, the most important part of any vineyard is the wine that is produced, and this is no exception at The Vineyards. At the moment, there is an exceptional special offer available. For a limited time only, there is a massive sale of Vineyard’s wines giving you the opportunity to purchase three selected bottles for only £20! This unbeatable offer will not be around for long so don’t miss out! If you are hosting a function or corporate event, consider The Wine House, a purpose built area on the Vineyards site, overlooking the state of the art winery and bottling line. With the option of added extras such as wine-tasting available, therefore offering an alternative to a standard hotel conference.

The site near Bobbington, is home to a fantastic tearoom and a superb restaurant which provide an exquisite selection of food and drink including daily specials. Sunday lunches are no exception and with a set price of £13.95 for a two course meal and £16.95 for three courses including a glass of wine, there has never been a better time to book a table and find out for yourself. Vintage high teas are also hugely popular at The Vineyards. Served daily on fine bone china with vintage napkins and tablecloths, customers are given the opportunity to catch up with friends and family whilst enjoying a scrumptious selection of sandwiches including cucumber, smoked salmon, honey glazed ham & egg & cress as well as fresh homemade cream cakes and a cup of tea. You may even like a glass of sparkling wine to make it a truly special occasion. Please note, high teas must be booked at least twenty four hours in advance for small parties, or a week in advance for larger groups.

On site, there is also an excellent craft centre providing endless opportunities to purchase a wide range of gifts. Pop into our well stocked deli and sample some of the delicious food cooked by the Vineyards’ own chefs. You may even like to take some home for all the family to share.

There really is something for everyone at The Vineyards! For more information, visit

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk or call 01384 221122.

If you are seeking an evening of glamour and fabulous food in beautiful surroundings, a Vineyard Gourmet night is most definitely for you. Enjoy a fantastic meal with your friends and family in a 54

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk Halfpenny Green Vineyards, Tom Lane, Bobbington, South Staffordshire DY7 5EP The Wine House

Enjoy our new High Teas

A new and unique vineyard setting for group tours, private events, business lunches, corporate training days and group visits.

Take your tea in style with one of our delightful traditional high teas, perfect as a gift or just to enjoy yourself!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9.30AM – 5.00PM Tel: 01384 221122 Email: sales@halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

NASH • C O N S U LT I N G • ENT

CLI

RKE

Making the connection Print • Digital • Audio • Video

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Corbelli Deli

by Gisella Wiley

a little piece of Italy… in Willenhall! from all areas of Wolverhampton, but much further afield.”

Many locally based Italian establishments claim to offer clients a piece of Little Italy, yet often, they fall short of the mark. As the daughter of Italian parents, I was keen to find out if Corbelli’s could really offer that Italian experience. My late parents, Virginio and Giuseppina Gambone came to Wolverhampton in the late 1950s. Although both my older brother Gerry and I were born in the city, we grew up ‘the Italian way’, showing a respect and love for Italian food and enjoying lots of family meals together. I wanted to show my partner Geoff a piece of my Italian heritage and Corbelli’s certainly did not disappoint.

the pungent aroma of cheese and salami drifting through the air, whilst the sounds of traditional Italian music and language filled my ears. To me, this felt like coming home as I spoke only Italian until the age of four when I started school! Corbelli’s was started by the late Giovanni Corbelli and is now run by his two sons Giuseppe and Pietro. The family business initially opened in Wolverhampton in 1965, before moving to its current location in 1980. Every customer is made to feel welcome and we were no exception. Speaking to Giuseppe, we discovered that during the first two weeks of September, grapes are imported from Italy to be sold to the general public so that they can make their own wine. He is very proud of the popularity of the business. “We have customers that come not just

Geoff found the experience thoroughly intriguing as he normally dislikes any supermarket shopping, in fact any sort of shopping at all! He found it most enjoyable, especially the hustle and bustle as well as the deli’s old fashioned charm, with no fancy electronic tills. We left with a trolley full to bursting with pasta, wine, salamis, virgin olive oil and freshly baked bread. Upon leaving, we noticed a number of English customers, keen to support a business of outstanding quality. Corbelli recently acquired exclusive distribution rights for Acqua Armani in the UK and Ireland. Available in both 330ml and 750ml beautifully designed glass bottles, ideal for weddings, parties, special occasions and corporate events. Buying direct from Corbelli’s gives customers the unique opportunity to purchase Acqua Armani, therefore cutting out the middle man and buying the beverage at a surprisingly reasonable price. We left with watering mouths, eagerly anticipating the taste sensation that would be discovered later when tucking into Corbelli’s finest produce.

The deli, based in Lower Lichfield Street, Willenhall, can be a little tricky to find, but is well worth the search. Mainly a wholesaler, Corbelli’s specialises in selling wines, cheeses, salamis, prosciutto, other cooked meats, olives, olive oil and pasta to restaurants, however, the public can take advantage of the opportunity to visit the deli on Saturdays 10am until 2pm, and Sundays 10am to 1.30pm. Entering Corbelli’s I was immediately transported back in time to my own childhood visits to relatives in Italy when we would pop into the local delicatessen. My senses were instantaneously overwhelmed with 56

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Corbelli’s

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www.littleitalydeli.co.uk Sole distributor for Armani Water in the UK and Ireland.

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If interested please ring: 01952 261267 (If we are unavailable please leave a message and we will contact you on our return.)

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Oldswinford coffee lounge

proving a hit with locals

No.92 Oldswinford Coffee Lounge opened for business on 4th November 2014 and is already proving popular with local customers. It offers a wide range of cakes, pastries, sandwiches and breakfasts, including a wide variety of gluten free options. Inspiration for the business came from local businessman Jonathon Smith, who despite being only 23, has extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Previously Jon has managed The Cross Guns in Codsall near Wolverhampton, and more recently he has managed The Island Pool in Kidderminster. Jonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for exquisite coffee is evident in the fact that he travelled to London to complete his City & Guilds Barista qualification. This has ensured that No.92 serves only the highest quality beverages as well as a variety of locally sourced products, including homemade cakes and pastries. An important part of Jonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idea was that the coffee shop would support local residents and businesses - even the company hired to renovate the building was local! Oldswinford Coffee Lounge has a very friendly, approachable team of staff who are more than happy to help. Within this hard working team, Jon is also supported by his sister Keifer. No. 92 is open Monday to Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 9am-4pm. 58

This month we have teamed up with Oldswinford Coffee Lounge to give one lucky reader the chance to win lunch for 2 including your choice of freshly made to order sandwiches, paninis or pittas. The prize also includes your choice from their extensive range of coffees, teas and a selection of iced shakes or smoothies. Finally you will enjoy a slice of one of their delicious handmade cakes! To enter simply answer the following question correctly.

What date did the coffee lounge open for business? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk or on a postcard to Town and Village Life magazine, 1 Lytham Road, Perton, Wolverhampton, WV6 7YY. Entries to be received by Friday 27th March 2015. Competition Terms and Conditions: Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given and booking date will be subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed by Friday 24th April 2015. All entries will be forwarded to Oldswinford Coffee Lounge unless requested otherwise.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Opening Times

Mon – Fri: 7.30am till 5pm Sat: 9am till 4pm Sun: 9am till 1pm

CALL 01384 396 722 92 Hagley Road, Oldswinford, Stourbridge DY8 1QU www.oldswinfordcoffee.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

find us on Facebook, search for ‘Oldswinford Coffee Lounge’

Three-day feast of music

entire evening, although a oneoff charge will be made for admission to a two hour performance by one of the world’s finest accordion duos that is to take place during the afternoon.

coming to Kinver Plans have been announced for what is believed to be the biggest musical event ever to be held in Kinver.

The village’s Rotary Club have joined the organisers of last year’s Kinver Music Event to create a three-day festival that will see most of the village’s public houses, community halls, and schools host a massive variety of performers that will cater for everybody’s taste in music. Following the theme of last year’s successful event, free live music will be playing at venues throughout the village 60

on Friday July 10 and Sunday July 12, sandwiching the Rotary Club’s Saturday Spectacular.

Emulating Rotary’s memorable Musical Extravaganza of a few years ago, the Saturday Spectacular will feature a brass band, choirs, a traditional Irish band and other speciality acts who will perform throughout the evening at five venues, including Edgecliff schools, Kinver Methodist Church and Church hall, St Peter’s Church Hall and the KSCA where a stunning laser show is planned as a finale. All performers will present programmes at set times and for set periods of 30 to 40 minutes duration to allow visitors to move from one to the other throughout the evening. One payment will cover entry into all venues for the

On Friday and Sunday pubs and other locations are going to be hosting gigs, with blues, pop, rock, jazz, country and folk sessions expected to bring in the crowds. Full details of performers, times and locations will be available nearer to the date. If you are a local performer and are interested in playing please contact tim. charnock@btinternet.com. Proceeds from the three day event will be split between the Mary Stevens Hospice and Acorns Children’s’ Hospice (except the accordion recital which will go to the village’s Chernobyl Children’s’ charity). For further information on the event please call Roy Sanders 01384 265477.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Multi-Award-Winning Fish and Chips

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The best fish and chips in the Black Country; 3,000 customers a week can’t be wrong. Fresh fish from sustainable waters Top quality fresh ingredients delivered daily Oil purifying equipment in daily use Fast and friendly service Large orders catered for

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* Our wine promotion runs until 30th April 2015 or until stocks last. Shop expenditure does not include the cost of drinks. The voucher has no cash value.

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Spend £15* or more at The Blue Submarine, and we’ll give you a free bottle of wine: red, rosé or white. Simply present this voucher.

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre appoints new Chief executive

The Board of Trustees at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre announced on 9th February 2015 the appointment of Adrian Jackson as the new Chief Executive of the city’s theatre. Adrian is the current Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Lichfield Garrick. He will join the Grand Theatre on a full-time basis after standing down from the Garrick in the summer.

will ensure that the future prosperity and reputation of the Garrick will continue to grow and flourish”. Jeremy Brown, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre said, “On behalf of the board I would like to say how thrilled we are on the appointment of Adrian Jackson. It is an exciting time for the theatre and we look forward to working with Adrian and the whole Grand Theatre team in the years to come”.

Adrian has been leading the Lichfield Garrick since 2006 and has spearheaded its development into an established and very successful Midlands venue. James Leavesley, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Lichfield Garrick said, “We wish Adrian all the best in his move to the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton. Given the Grand’s size and significance, it is a natural progression for someone with Adrian’s talent and experience. We are now entering a very exciting time at the Garrick which wouldn’t have been possible without Adrian’s guidance over the past decade. A re-structuring of the management team

Local drama group

looking for new members The Norton Players is a newly formed Amateur Drama group, based in Norton, Stourbridge. The group is on the lookout for new members to help fill the remaining roles in their adaptation of the family classic, The Railway Children. The roles are for 4 male actors, aged between 30-50, and one male actor aged 16-18. Rehearsals are very low pressure and the aim is to show how much fun theatre can be, with an emphasis on enjoyment of both preparation and performance. All that is asked is that people who join are dedicated to any part they may be asked to play. It is intended to perform the play in late May or early June this year. 62

The only rules are; members must be committed, reliable and a have a slight touch of madness!! The group meets from 7pm to 9pm, on Tuesday evenings, at Norton Community Centre, Kempton Way, Norton, Stourbridge DY8 3AZ.

All members pay £2.00 per session, to cover hall hire costs. For more information, please contact Phill on 07954 692593 / 01384 824766 or email : nortonplayers@yahoo.co.uk

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Great Theatre at the Grand! WED 13 - SAT 16 MAY

TUE 8 - SAT 12 SEP

B E L I E V E I N L O V E

West Bromwich Operatic Society are extremely proud to present

Music by

Book & Lyrics by

BRUCE JOEL RUBIN Music & Lyrics by DAVE STEWART & GLEN BALLARD

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER Book & Lyrics by

DON BLACK & CHRISTOPHER HAMPTON

“Unchained Melody” written by Hy Zaret & Alex North,courtesy of Unchained Meoldy Publishing LLC

Based on the film by

Based on the Paramount Pictures film written by Bruce Joel Rubin

SUNSET BOULEVARD makes a long awaited return to the stage this Autumn, a first for the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. The show weaves a magnificent tale of faded glory and unfulfilled ambition.

BILLY WILDER

Original West End Production Produced by Colin Ingram, David Garfinkle, Adam Silberman, Land Line Productions, Donovan Mannato, Michael Edwards & Carole Winter

You will laugh... you will cry... but above all, you will believe in love.

A n am a t e ur pr od u ct i on b y a rr a ng e m e nt w it h T he R e a l l y U s e fu l Gr o up L td

This is an amateur production.

Silent movie star Norma Desmond longs for a return to the big screen, having been discarded by tinsel town with the advent of “talkies. ”Her glamour has faded in all but her mind. When Desmond meets struggling Hollywood screen-writer Joe Gillis in dramatic circumstances, their subsequent passionate and volatile relationship leads to an unforeseen and tragic conclusion. Based on the Billy Wilder film, the musical version of SUNSET BOULEVARD includes music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Christopher Hampton and Don Black.

@WolvesGrand

Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

42 92 12

BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk

Eating Out and Entertainment

TOWN & VILLAGE

LIFE M AGA Z I N E

Promote your venue to over 32,000 readers

with Town & Village Life magazine. For further details contact Gisella on: 01902 744217

Wombourne Tandoori Restaurant Established 1989

Air conditioned

Cuisine of Bengal

Fully licensed



FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

Rafique Miah welcomes you to the longest established Indian Restaurant in Wombourne Village, serving sumptuous Bangladeshi Cuisine for over 25 years. “We pride ourselves on our Quality of Food, Excellent Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction.” Recently refurbished in contemporary surroundings, air conditioned and fully licensed. Our popular Take-away Service is still the best in Wombourne offering 10% off our Menu price.

Bookings now being taken for Mothering Sunday 15th March 2015

Tel: 01902 324148 / 324437 Open 7 days including Bank Holidays - 5.30pm until 11.30pm

High Street, Wombourne WV5 9DN 64

facebook.com/wombourne.tandoori

www.wombournetandoori.com town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Sunday March 15th 2015

MOTHER’S DAY at Village Urban Resorts Dudley

Starter, Mains

& Desserts

£16.95 only

under 12 years £9.95 under 3 are FREE

To book call

0871 222 4584 Village Hotel Dudley, Castlegate Drive, Castlegate Business Park DY1 4TB Calls to 0871 numbers cost 10p per minute plus network extras. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

www.VillageUrbanResorts.com65

Mother’s

Day

The mother figure has always been a mystic symbol since pagan times, and spring has, since time immemorial, been the season when this mystic being with all its implied fertility, was honoured. The Romans celebrated a spring festival dedicated to Cybele and a host of other equally fertile female goddesses. The Druids before them dedicated a spring festival to the goddesses of spring, Fertility and Plenty. Early Christians, in an attempt to establish Christian festivals and oust pagan ones, adopted the pagan festivals and re-named them. The Virgin Mary slotted neatly into the old spring festival being the mother of Christ and so was accepted by a slowly converting western world. By the 18th and 19th centuries, Mothering Sunday was considered so important, it was generally granted as a holiday to domestic servants living away from the parental home. It afforded them the opportunity to visit their mother church and to take gifts to their birth mothers. It was the Americans who brought the celebration into the 20th century by settling upon a day in which mothers in fact could be celebrated in a modern way. This was the work of one Anna Jarvis who arranged a dedicated service in memory of her own mother who died in 1905. Her mother’s favourite flowers had been red carnations so the church was decorated with them and everyone in attendance, presented with a single bloom to carry or wear. Miss Jarvis never married but instead, dedicated herself to the task of having Mother’s Day proclaimed a national holiday throughout the USA. Gradually through her tireless efforts, it became a day more and more generally recognised. It usually fell on a Sunday in May that being the month on which old 66

Mrs. Jarvis had died. In 1914 it was proclaimed a National holiday by President Woodrow Wilson. He designated the 2nd Sunday in May and every year afterwards, the current president proclaimed the day a holiday. Like all national celebrations of course, it soon became a highly commercialised celebration and Miss Jarvis eventually became bitter and disillusioned about the whole thing. In Britain we continued celebrating Mothering Sunday in March but until World War II it was still considered a purely Christian festival. With the advent of American forces being stationed in Britain during and after the War, the idea of celebrating mothers in general, gradually caught on and Mothering Sunday and Mother’s Day became one in the UK, a double celebration as it had been in times past. Today, flowers are still top of the gift list and there is not a florist in the country that won’t be run off their feet both on the day before and Mother’s Day itself. This year, it might be appropriate to consider a flowering plant, which will naturally have a longer life and can be enjoyed for many months to come. Chocolates again are popular, but always consider other exotic sweetmeats and foods; local shops will have a wide selection to choose from. A custom that has grown up in recent years is that of taking mother out for a special meal on Mothering Sunday. Mother’s Day lunches will be found in pubs, clubs, hotels and restaurants

all over the country. They are very popular and get booked up fast, so if you wish to wine and dine your mother, there is not a moment to lose. Many family members celebrate together and it is not unusual for parties to comprise a dozen or more adults plus children, so if yours is of that size, it is even more important to get your reservation in at your chosen venue. Some establishments will be open all day, and from late afternoon special celebratory dinner menus will be available. Caterers nowadays appreciate the fact that certain people have dietary requirements or refrain from eating certain kinds of food. Make sure the venue you choose has a menu suitable for all those attending, including a vegetarian choice, as even non-vegetarians sometimes enjoy a non-meat meal. This is no longer considered to be odd or faddy - just a 21st century attitude to living. Strangely this is very much in line with pre-Christian tradition. Feasting was always a feature of festivals and annual celebrations. It all goes to prove there is really nothing new under the sun. Mothers have always been special, they have always been honoured and spring has always been their season. By celebrating Mother’s Day and honouring her with a gift and delicious meal, you are simply walking in the footsteps of your ancestors; footsteps that can be traced right back, far into the mists of time.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Fully Licensed

Air Conditioned

Car Park at rear of Restaurant

Contemporary Modern Dining at Sedgley’s Premier Indian Restaurant

Saffron Pink’s RestauRant R Rant

Sayed Miah along with his expert team of knowledgeable chefs and waiting staff welcome you to Saffron Pink. We pride ourselves on our high standard of service and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.

Take Away Service Available FREE Home Delivery within a 3 mile radius, minimum order £15 Orders between £10 to £15 within a 3 mile radius, only £1.50

Bookings now being taken for Mothering Sunday ! March 15th

To book a table please call

01902 671759 / 673665 Open 7 Days including Bank Holidays, Sunday to Thursday 5.30pm to 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday 5.30pm to 12 Midnight

 FOOD HYGIENE RATING SCHEME 2011

2 Bull Ring, Dudley Street, Sedgley, DY3 1RU

the

welcome to...

Island Pool

The Islan d Pool Wolv erha mpto n Road Kidd ermi nste r DY1 0 3RX (form erly Cook ley Arms )

A classic country pub serving a high standard of food and great traditional ales

CArvery - available everyday from only £4.99 Choose from any of our freshly selected roasted meats accompanied by Yorkshire pudding and homemade seasoning, served with a wide selection of locally sourced fresh vegetables. All finished off with our chef’s secret recipe gravy!

extensive Menu served every day! Alongside our carvery we have an extensive menu with a range of foods to suit any and every palate. We are proud to offer exquisite beef steaks, also sourced locally and cooked to perfection.

Quiz night! starting Weds 25th Feb Every Wednesday we will be hosting our quiz night! starting from 8:30pm come down and test yourself! From current affairs, general knowledge to music and picture rounds our quiz is fun for all!

For bookings or further details please call 01562 850 311 or email: info@theislandpool.com

w w w.t h e i s l a n d p o o l . c o m

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Keep calm and

curry on Braving the January cold snap, our editor Geoff Hall warms up the best way he knows how - with a belly full of top-notch curry from Saffron Pink’s. Once the jewel in Britain’s crown, it now seems that India is firmly the jewel of our culinary crown. And no jewel shines brighter locally than Sedgley-based Indian restaurant, Saffron Pink’s. Offering fine Bengali, Tandoori and Asian speciality cuisine from its seat in the Bull Ring, Dudley Street, for over 28 years, the restaurant has established itself as a firm favourite with locals and yours truly alike.

There’s no other place quite like it. For anyone in search of a top-quality curry, this is Journey’s End. And if you won’t take my word for it, here’s more: as Sedgley’s longest established Indian restaurant, Saffron Pink’s five star rating from environmental health quantifies this nicely, in addition they have received a Gold Award from Dudley Food for Health. But I’m here to tell you about the food. Stepping inside, my partner - in life and Sales Director of this esteemed magazine, Gisella Wiley (for it is she!) - and I are immediately

greeted by owner Sayed Miah, who quickly finds us a table. There’s a great feel to the place as you walk in. The ceilings are high, the restaurant is sympatheticallylit, stylish and modern. The mood dial is set to snug. After being seated and with drinks orders dispatched, we agree to the now obligatory tray of dips – the onion dip is zingy, fresh and crunchy and the pickle tray oozes taste and flavours. Still picking at the remnants of the poppadoms, we dive into the main

A fan of ‘popping out for a Indian’ since I was a lad, I’ve always prided myself upon having a knack for nosing out the best from the rest and, as I arrive late-on at Saffron Pink’s door, after a long day spent putting the latest edition of this very magazine to bed, I once again feel vindicated. 68

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

menu, which has a good selection of starters ranging from £3.05 to £3.75, with the usual suspects on the mains plus chef’s Sifarish - E Khas signature dishes ranging from a still very affordable £7.65 to £12.95. I go for ‘Onion Bhajees - marinated deep fried onions with herbs and spices’ (£3.05) - served with salad and a trio of sauces - and Gisella orders ‘Special Saffron Aloo Chaat’ (£3.25) - Chaat mosala spices fried with onions, capsicum, tomatoes and fresh herbs. The Bhajees dish is delightful and the Aloo Chaat is reliably described to me as “a flavour-fest, bursting with the exotic.” As ever, both dishes are nicely presented and wellcooked. Attention to detail is clearly a high priority at Saffron Pink’s; delicately laid tables, impeccable service and artistically-presented food all bear witness to this. Gisella can’t resist the Chef’s Specialties section of the menu for her main and decides upon ‘Tandoori Chicken Bhuna’(£7.65): a dish that’s made using marinated chicken, roasted in a clay oven and cooked in dry spices with onions and seasoned with fresh herbs. I select ‘Vegetable Biryani’(£7.65); a rice-based dish served with a medium spicy sauce. While neither dish threatens to break the bank, I know they’ll both provide the ‘curry hit’ we’re after. www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

During the inevitable lull in proceedings we are entertained with India’s answer to MTV, which plays on the restaurant’s large flat screen TV. Furthermore we soak up surroundings; observing the many satisfied patrons enjoying that unmistakable pre-weekend buzz. The mains arrive and they are towering examples of value-formoney eating-out. The plates packed to the gunwales; steaming hot, invitingly aromatic and with that indefinable glowing hue that so coats almost every curry dish. My taste buds are tingling. And it’s not just the portion sizes which impress, there’s the restaurant’s 2 for 1 on all main courses on Wednesdays and Thursdays too, diners must book in advance. Not to mention an attractive takeaway menu.

As the last mouthfuls disappear, I exhale with blissful contentment. We pass on dessert and can manage only a complimentary shot of Baileys and a mint chocolate to finish. It’s always a shame to leave one of your favourite restaurants, but on this occasion it’s made somewhat easier by knowing that I’m leaving Saffron Pink’s well and truly in the pink. Saffron Pink’s, 2 Bull Ring, Dudley Street, Sedgley DY3 1RU. To book a table please call 01902 671759 www.saffronpinks.com

Chef Makhan and his team of skilled cooks always create authentic foods using only fine and fresh ingredients, every one of them representative of the traditional flavours and cooking processes of India. The standout dish is – according to Gisella – the Chicken Bhuna; however, I’m not convinced, since my Vegetable Biryani, although not a big favourite among us Brits, is the real deal: a welcome alternative to the usual fare with deep textures and zingy flavours. We savour every bite. 69

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Make your wedding day One they’ll all remember It’s your big day, and with months of discussion about dresses, colour themes and table decorations, the comfort and enjoyment of guests is often overlooked.

But if your friends and family are enjoying themselves and everyone is getting along famously, it’ll make the celebrations even more special for you. So how can you make sure a good time is had by all?

The first thing to bear in mind is that many people that come to your wedding won’t know each other, so it’s important that you

By Victoria Poolman

give everyone the best chance of becoming better acquainted. You may not have time to introduce people personally, so instead ask a close friend or relative to look out for those who are coming along on their own. Position individuals considerately on the table plan next to someone with similar interests or who works in the same field. It’s also important to place quieter individuals next to somebody warm and welcoming. An engagement party is also a great idea - hire out an area of a bar somewhere accessible to everyone so that your guests will have a chance to mingle before your big day.

A common problem at weddings is that family and friendship groups may not have seen each other for a while, meaning that great huddles of people may form. A fantastic way of breaking these up and encouraging people to mix is by incorporating some games into the day’s itinerary. You might have chandeliers, sugar-coated almonds and a six-foot train, but a bit of fun won’t detract from the glamour and sense of occasion, it’ll simply allow your guests to let their hair down. Organise a sweepstake for how long the best man’s speech will take and ask an usher to time it, with the winner receiving a prize. Create a pub quiz with questions which have been tailored to different groups in the room, as well as some associated with the bride and groom, so that everyone has an answer to contribute. This can be done at the tables between courses, so lay out some answer sheets and you’ll encourage everyone to work together. If you have a sunny day and a garden, get some lawn activities going – giant Connect 4, Twister, croquet or even a friendly game of cricket. Check out amazon. co.uk, play.com and EBay for great deals (and with EBay you can resell them after the day too!) www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Give people a talking point. The more inventive aspects of the day you can include, the better. But you don’t have to come up with lots of mad ideas for the sake of it, instead use this as a way of personalising your wedding day and making it all the more special. For example, instead of flowers go for some quirky centrepieces. Bookkeeper Rebecca Field said: “My brother-in-law is a plane fanatic and studied aviation at university, as did a lot of guests at the wedding, so we all helped make a range of Airfix models for the tables. Each table’s name was that of the plane and he gave the models away to younger guests, which people thought was really touching.” Another great idea is to place items on the tables for specific people, which encourages stories to be shared. Account Manager James Duffy said: “We were at a wedding recently with a friend who was famed for once getting a peanut stuck in his ear, which stayed there for months until it had to be removed. We all thought it was hilarious when we went to take a seat and in his place was a large bowl of salted peanuts.” Don’t forget any little ones. Look after them and their parents can relax and enjoy themselves. So think about food timings; if you have a midday ceremony and the wedding breakfast isn’t until mid-afternoon, arrange a hamper with biscuits, packets of raisins,

bananas and cartons of squash to see them through. Avoid E numbers and too many sweets - and have the basket on a high table so that tiny hands can’t stuff themselves silly. Don’t forget that weddings can be boring for children, so pick up some cheap toys to keep them amused during speeches. Colouring books and crayons are great (be careful with pens), as are books, and puppets are fantastic for later in the day. If you are getting married in a hotel, encourage parents to book a room so that if their children need an early night, they can all be put down together and mums can take it in turn to supervise so that nobody misses out on the party. When your evening guests arrive, get the party started by jazzing up your first dance. This can be the most worrying part of the day for the groom, so invest in some choreography

or choose a song that’s a little less daunting and involving other members of the wedding party can also ease the anxiety. Instead of cradling each other to a Whitney Houston classic, think about a song which makes you both laugh, or something with a fun routine to follow: Grease is a good one, as is Saturday Night Fever, or something which brings back memories such as a cheesy 80s tune. By choosing an upbeat track, you’re likely to get people up onto the dance floor, so encourage children and grandparents to join in and pluck people from the crowd so that everyone feels involved. Don’t be afraid to break tradition if it suits you. Why not skip the receiving line, so that people aren’t forced to wait around, only to struggle for something to say? And when it comes to speeches, keep them short and sweet – perhaps with just the bride and groom offering a few words of thanks? The trick with all these personal touches is to delegate. Plan well in advance and ask for help from your ushers and bridesmaids – it’s what they’re there for. The most important thing to remember is to stay relaxed; the more stressed you become with all the details, the less fun your wedding day will be. When people talk about ‘that fantastic wedding’, they generally mean that it was a comfortable, fun, and relaxing day spent celebrating two people they love.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

commemorating Wolves legends Billy Wright and Stan Cullis. As an extra incentive to celebrate your special day with us we are offering one lucky couple the chance to win our wedding prize draw.

book your wedding to win Molineux Stadium is no ordinary venue, home to one of the founder members of the Football League, Wolverhampton Wanderers, for 125 years. The stadium has 11 licenced rooms that can host civil ceremonies for 10-275 people, some with stunning views over the pitch where history has been made. Your wedding breakfast and evening receptions can follow, with us able

to accommodate parties of up to 275 with a three course sit down meal followed by an evening buffet. We offer a number of packages to suit budgets and guest lists, as well as personal tastes and our dedicated events team will work with you to make your day as perfect as the vision you have of it. As part of your package we can allow access to pitch side for photographs, as well as the iconic backdrop of the exterior of the Stadium and statues

Would you like free chair covers for your reception, a Wolves legend to pop along on the day to say hello and help you toast your special day and to top it all off a trip to our directors box on the nearest match-day to your first anniversary – a dream come true for any Wolves fan.

All you need to do to qualify is book your wedding before 30th April 2015 and you will be entered into the draw. Weddings must be booked before 30th April 2015 but can take place after the date. We would love to invite you to come and view our facilities, meet our Events Team and discuss how we can help you plan your perfect day. Call 0871 222 2220 (option 5) or email weddings@wolves.co.uk

Weddings @ Molineux Book your wedding between now and 30th April 2015 to enter a draw to win: • Free chair covers for your reception. • A visit from a Wolves legend to congratulate the happy couple and pose for photo’s. • A visit to Directors Box for the Bride and Groom at the nearest game to your first wedding anniversary.

weddings@wolves.co.uk corporatewolves.co.uk 0871 222 2220 option 5

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Photography for all occasions Wedding Events

Newborn Family

Commercial Portraits

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Chauffeur Driven Gold Service Luxury Cars & Minibuses • Wedding Hire • Airport Transfers • Concerts • Anniversaries • Proms • Birthdays • Sporting Events • And any other Special Occasion Contact: Keith Warner

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Covering the Stourbridge area and all surrounding towns and villages. Long and short destinations of your choice. (including all UK airports and seaports)

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Getting married?

every occasion has it covered Every Occasion set up in 2007 as Every Occasion Venue Dressing, was a family-run home-based business.

Over the past 8 years they have built their business up through word of mouth, recommendations from satisfied customers and also local hotels to which they provide linen hire service for weddings and corporate events. During the summer of 2011 they expanded the business and began offering a complete wedding floristry service due to many requests from brides looking for everything under one roof! Their fully qualified and experienced florists have put together an impressive portfolio of work to complement their venue styling service.

“We are hiring out Starlight dance floors perfect for weddings, civil partnerships, corporate events, celebrations, themed parties, awards nights and proms. Our pure gloss white dance floor has hundreds of twinkly and sparkly white LEDs built in and illuminated from beneath! “The LED lights can remain static or flash and twinkle. The dance floor lighting is controlled by a remote to change the intensity and flash speed of the lights, as well as making the floor sparkle to the tempo of your first dance”! If you are organising a special event in 2015 contact Every Occasion and let them make your event one to remember.

March 2013 saw the launch of their retail premises in Stourbridge Town Centre. Many of the hire items are on display, their portfolios can be viewed and they stock a full range of wedding stationery and accessories by Serendipity Wedding Design. Owner Nikki explains “Whether you are having a grand affair or an intimate wedding, we can help you give it the edge with a perfect service, amazing flowers and attention to detail. We can co-ordinate your floral requirements from the bridal party to the flowers for your reception! All budgets, no matter how small or large, can be catered for. We will advise on types of flowers, seasonal availability and suggest designs to keep within your budget without compromising on quality and style”. Nikki adds that she has some new and exciting product ranges on offer in 2015.

Beautiful Flowers for All Occasions! • Wedding flowers • Funeral and sympathy designs • Gift bouquets to order and local delivery • Chair cover hire and table centrepieces

Specialising in Bridal Bouquets, Buttonholes, Corsages & more Personal Design Service for Funeral Arrangements at very competitive prices Flowers available to order online at

www.flowersandchaircovers.co.uk Tel: 0845 0533167 or 07533 579018 170 Lower High Street Stourbridge DY8 1TG FREE 1 Hour Parking directly outside

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital Healthcare to help you make the most of life Our treatment costs are transparent and covered by a one-off-payment – and are more affordable than you might think. • Enquiry You have a medical problem and DON’T have health insurance. Contact us for more information or to book an appointment. • Your initial consultation This will take place at your local Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital. There is a one off payment for this appointment.

Your health is at the centre of everything we do. Whether you need prevention or cure, we want to work with you to ensure your health allows you to lead the life you want.

• Tests and investigations You may need further tests or investigations as recommended by your consultant. These are paid for as and when required.

As a not-for-profit business we reinvest all profit in our hospitals, gyms, medical centres, and our expert staff.

• Treatment If you need surgical or non-surgical treatment, this will be arranged at a time to suit you. You will be given a guaranteed all-inclusive procedure price.

We have the highest standards of clinical care, with Consultant-led treatment, spotlessly clean rooms, and a team of dedicated and experienced nurses.

Our Health Experts Consultants

All our consultants are highly experienced and are here to listen to you. During your consultation they will answer any questions you have and tell you all about your diagnosis and any treatment or procedure. They are all registered with the appropriate professional organisation for their specialty and hold General Medical Council registration. Having medical treatment can be an anxious time, that is why we think it’s important that you have the same consultant looking after you throughout your time with us. Your consultant will also continue to look after you when you return home, and during any aftercare.

Matron-led care

Everyone knows that matrons make hospitals run efficiently and, above all, hygienically. Nuffield Health has never lost sight of this. Our dedicated Matron takes responsibility for your nursing care and works around the clock to ensure your comfort and safety.

Physiotherapists

Our physiotherapists can help restore your movement and function if you’ve been affected by an injury, illness or are recovering from an operation. They can also provide you with advice in pain relief and rehabilitation to get you back on your feet and help you to lead a happy and healthy life.

Private GPs

You can see our private GPs at a time that suits you with minimal waiting and plenty of time for your appointment so you don’t feel rushed. They can also refer you to hospital consultants if necessary.

A guide to accessing private healthcare

• Aftercare All aftercare is included within your treatment. The Nuffield Health Promise means there are no time limits on your aftercare.*

Private Medical Health Insurance • Enquiry You have a medical problem and you DO have private medical health insurance. Contact us to guide you through the process or to book an initial consultation appointment. Check with your insurer that your policy covers you for treatment with us. • Your initial consultation This will take place at your local Nuffield Health Hospital. You will need your insurance policy number and pre-authorisation code and a referral letter from your GP • Tests and investigations You may need further tests or investigations as recommended by your consultant. • Treatment If you need surgical or non-surgical treatment, this will be arranged at a time to suit you. We will arrange payment directly with your insurance company. • Aftercare All aftercare is included within your treatment.

In our hospital you can expect: • • • •

Rapid access to consultations, x-rays and treatment Matron-led care with a dedicated, friendly nursing team First class treatment and clinical standards Guidance and support throughout every stage of your treatment • Private, en-suite rooms with excellent facilities

Paying For Yourself

Don’t wait, get back to the life you love - Contact us Now!

If you don’t have health insurance, it doesn’t mean you can’t have swift access to private hospital treatment. At Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital private treatment can be just as accessible by paying for yourself.

For further information on any of the above please call us today on 01902 793259 or visit our website: www.nuffieldhealth.com

*Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Contact us today and take control of your health and wellbeing Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital, Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8LE nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/wolverhampton 01902 793259

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www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

13/01/2015 17:09

Is it time to soften the

lines of ageing? Nobody grows old merely by living a number of years. We grow old by deserting our ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul – so said American poet Samuel Ullman.

As we age the skin is creased in areas of repeated facial expression – the passing years resulting in loss of its ability to repair itself.

Exploring the mindset of staying young, his best-known work, Youth, encourages a collection of positive choices.

While Medi Visage will also undertake more surgically invasive procedures to keep skin healthy, it also offers clinically-proven, none-invasive therapy as part of weight reduction control.

Born in 1840 and turning to write poetry in his latter years, he penned about the importance of self-confidence and engaging a childlike appetite for “what is to come next.” While many of his philosophies remain true, no doubt had he have been born with a voice for this generation he would have been adding some medical and scientific options to his remedy list for fighting off the years. Perhaps he would have been exhorting the softening of wrinkles with arguments for giving in to injectable muscle relaxants. Or maybe he’d be the one who’d re-craft the missing arms of the famed Greek statue Venus de Milo (Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and pleasure). “Youth is not a time of life,” he wrote, “it’s a state of mind.” Indeed, making the right choices can help recover appetite for wellbeing. Bibi Dodd, a director of Medi Visage on the Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, says: “People need to choose wisely when it comes to beauty therapies. It wasn’t that long ago that nail and hair salons were administering dermal fillers. “At Medi Visage, of course we offer those beauty therapies that can successfully soften the lines of ageing, but they are carried out by Maxillofacial surgeon and leading cancer consultant Khaleeq-Ur-Rehman BDS, FDSRCPS, MBChB, MRCS (Gen Surg), FRCS (OMFS). 78

“We have a very strong medical team here that also includes principal of Total Implant Solutions, Jon Pugh BDS MSc (implant dentistry) and consultant dermatologist Dr Hamdi Hamad.”

For years, those who required body contouring bought into the liposuction dream, parting with millions of pounds for liposculpture or suction-assisted lipectomy procedures. The surgery permanently removed fat cells, allowing people to be thin without tortuous exercise regimes and low-fat, low taste diets. “But the same results can now be achieved without such an invasive approach with the 3D-Lipo experience,” adds Bibi. 3D-Lipo lays claim to a non-surgical solution to weight-loss, removing fat, treating cellulite and tightening skin on the face and body. The first stage of the treatment – cavitation – uses ultrasound waves to break down the fat cells. The science involves ultrasound creating a wave which destroys fat cells, causing them to turn into liquid that is then processed away naturally by the body. The second stage – cryoliposis – involves the freezing of fat cells which are drawn towards the skin surface. Critically, reports claim the process doesn’t cause any damage to the skin or other surrounding areas. Frequency, the third and final process, involves radio frequency and can concentrate on skin tightening and cellulite issues. town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

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bloWN AWAY

get a salon smooth blow-dry at home by helen Taylor

A great blow dry can transform your hair from limp and lacklustre to sleek and shiny in no time. Here’s how to get a salon-looking blow dry at home:

to break and can snag and pull at your hair, resulting in split ends and damage.

Firstly, wash your hair with a good quality shampoo and conditioner that suit the needs of your hair; coloured, dry and damaged etc.

Whilst your hair is damp apply a little oil or serum to the lengths to lock in moisture and add shine.

Once you’ve washed your hair, wrap it in a towel and leave it for a short time, so that it’s damp rather than dripping wet when you start to dry it. Gently brush through your hair using a good brush - natural bristles are best. Keep an eye on plastic varieties, because over time plastic bristles tend

Section your hair using clips - even if it’s relatively short. Start at the bottom of your hair first, moving to the top of your head last.

Using a round barrel brush - this helps to create volume and lift - start drying the first section, roots first. Keep your dryer about six inches away from your scalp, so that the heat isn’t too intense. Use your brush to grip and pull hair taught in the direction you want it to go. If your hair is very fine or damaged, use a cooler setting

on your dryer so that you don’t cause breakage. Direct the air from your dryer downwards - the nozzle will help with this - to create a smooth, sleek finish. Don’t move on to the next section of your hair until each is completely dry. Be sure to keep moving your dryer - leaving heat concentrated on one area for too long will frazzle your locks. Set and add shine to your blowdry by finishing off with a cool blast of air from your dryer. If you want your tresses to look even more shiny, add a little more serum or oil to your finished look.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

C a p e l l i

Ha i rdr e s s i ng

head and shoulders above the rest lighting and indulgent massage chairs, a salon experience that will help you de-stress and give you the pampering you deserve whilst not forgetting the primary reason you the customer are here. Fabulous looking hair at a price that will make you smile.

The salon has long been at the top of its game and has earned an excellent reputation in the industry.

That is why - along with the usual refreshments – there is a selection of herbal teas and chocolates on offer, as well as the option to take advantage of a therapeutic head massage whilst your hair is being shampooed and conditioned - guaranteed to melt the day’s stresses away.

Owner Flora Bianco believes in putting the customer first and has worked hard to create the perfect setting for her clients. The Salon is designed with luxury in mind, from the authentic Italian furniture and decorative pieces to soft

It is not all about rest and relaxation at the salon though, there’s a great team of stylists including Laurren Padmore and Siobhan Devlin who are new to the team and led by Flora, waiting to give you the cut and colour of your dreams.

Capelli Hairdressing has come of age this March reaching their 21st year in business.

“We use a range of long-lasting ammonia-free permanent colours - enriched with ingredients that leave hair feeling incredibly shiny and soft. Organic Way’ (O-Way) are a collection of Italian shampoos, conditioners and styling products that are rich in natural ingredients - that work perfectly with the natural balance of your hair fibre, ensuring that your hair looks naturally beautiful.” Flora also uses a fantastic range called Label M. “I really like the concept behind Label M products, they’re fresh, funky and fashionled; great for creating a new look” And what’s more, all of the products are available to buy in the salon.

Colour, Cut & Finish £50* (with Laurren & Siobhan)

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday

*Additional charge for extra colours. Skin text required 48 hours prior. Offer valid when you mention this advert. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Italian Ammonia free colours, also stockists of Organic products Free parking, Loyalty cards, Gift vouchers and stockists of Label M products Now Open Mondays and late on Thursdays! Open: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9am – 6pm. Thurs 9am – 8pm. Sat 8.30am – 4.30pm

To book an appointment please: Te l : 0 1 3 8 4 4 8 4 7 4 9 | w w w. c a p e l l i h a i r d r e s s i n g . c o . u k 131 Dudley Road, Brierley Hill, DY5 1HD www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Image courtesy of ‘Estee Lauder’

FResh FACeD the ultimate at-home facial by helen Taylor

A facial is a great pickme-up and one of those all important treatments that not only results in glowing skin, but leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated too. Here’s how to do it at home: Firstly, create the right atmosphere; gentle lighting and soothing music equal total relaxation. Next, cleanse away the day by removing all traces of make up. You must use an eye make up remover, cleanser and toner to thoroughly benefit the skin - make up remover wipes just won’t cut it. Use a muslin cloth that’s been submerged in hot water to place over the face in order to open up the pores. Leave for a few moments before repeating. Double cleanse by using a wash off cleanser that will extract any deeply

ingrained dirt and grime. Smooth the product over the face and neck, before removing using circular, upward motions. Splash with water. Now that the skin is at this stage it’s time to work on congested areas. If you are prone to blackheads then a good exfoliator is essential for clearing-out blocked pores. And what’s more, they are great for getting rid of dead skin cells and revealing brighter, fresher and younger looking skin. Apply the exfoliant to damp skin and work all over, concentrating on the forehead, nose and chin. Rinse off. Next, apply a face mask. Ensure that it’s the right kind for you - if you have combination skin then use assorted masks, applied in different areas for the very best results. Many beauty therapists do this so that they

can address the requirements of each part of the face. With your face mask on, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy doing nothing for a few minutes. Use a wet face cloth to remove the mask and splash your face with cool water before drying thoroughly. Next, apply an eye cream. Start at the outer most point of the eye and use light tapping motions to press the product into the skin Moisturise using a product that suits your skin’s needs and as you apply treat yourself to a mini massage that will stimulate circulation and bring much needed oxygen and nutrition to the surface. Work from the centre of your face, moving upwards and outwards, using your fingers and palms to lift and smooth the skin. Don’t forget to include your neck too.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

t a E e? m If your dentures canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to call us Implant overdentures: a permanent fix for stability problems Telephone 01902 420654 for a complimentary consultation

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

improve your well being at

AuRAVeDA

Here at Auraveda we offer well being through holistic care. This means that we take into consideration your body’s total constitution, that being physical, emotional and mental welfare.

We have many approaches and methods for you to choose from. You may want a simple hand and arm massage for say RSI or arthritis. A deep back massage to alleviate the constant strain of sitting at a desk, a heavy work load or driving. Or perhaps a full body massage with a steam bath to finish. We can offer a dry skin massage if you are going on somewhere afterwards and prefer no oils. We have weight management and detox programmes to suit everyone and a range of herbal medicines to help with chronic conditions like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Parkinson’s Disease and Arthritic conditions etc., It may be that you have some emotional stresses to deal with and require a deeper treatment, in which case we can offer a range of our healing modalities.

Suzanne Taylor

Crystal healing, esoteric healing or reiki, all of which benefit on a much deeper level leaving you centred and content. It is also possible for you to come with a small group (5-6) and take in a pamper afternoon/ evening with us. Don’t forget we do gift vouchers – an ideal gift for Mothers Day.

Ayurvedic and Holistic Therapy Centre Well-being through holistic care

Treat yourself this March at AuraVeda and get 20% off* ALL TREATMENTS Ideal Mothers Day Gift – treat Mum and she will also receive a small gift when she has her treatment.

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Ayurvedic Treatments/Steam Room Discover Your Dosha Healing Treatments and Courses Weight Loss Programs Baby Massage and Yoga Classes Yoga, Meditation and Pilates Classes Own Brands Available Ayurvedic Medicines by Prescription

hello@auraveda.co.uk 41 High Street, Kinver

Gift Vouchers available Please telephone Suzanne on 01384 936227

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*Offer for Town & Village Life Magazine readers only when you present this advert. Voucher valid until Saturday 21st March, no photocopies. Not valid against products, courses and not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Pension cash: All smiles for long-term investment could potentially offer long-term returns. Generally implants can be expected to last a lifetime. “Many of our implant patients are denture wearers. For some, their prescriptions have come to the end of their serviceable time and are loose, inefficient, aesthetically poor and painful. “One of the most popular solutions is our implant-retained overdentures that are suitable for both top and lower teeth,” she adds. For well over a century, complete maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) dentures were the traditional standard of care. Adds Bibi: “Patients that have a removable upper or lower denture know only too well that there are certain limitations with this option. There can be lack of retention, stability, and inability to chew and eat certain foods.

Peter Brookes CDTDip – ‘Creating beauty in every smile’

From April 6, the over-55s will have the potential of tapping into newfound wealth. Changes in the pension laws will mean a Chancellor’s windfall for those who wish to cash in their pension as a lump sum rather than purchase an annuity. Already the holiday market is salivating as it expects a sudden rush to dream destinations. A survey by Saga, provider of financial services for the over-50s, carried out a survey that revealed eight per cent of people approaching retirement would use some of their money to indulge in a dream holiday. In a similar funds release scheme in Australia almost double that number enjoying the cash injection spent cash getting time away. Quoted in the Mail On Sunday, Richard Down, who founded online cruise retailer Iglu, says: “The view of the cruise industry is that this is a great opportunity.” 86

With that buoyant boost, operators are already hiking up marketing budges and delivering tempting incentives to spend. When George Osborne swept away many of the regulations governing the pensions industry and freed savers to do what they will, critics feared that some would spend on immediate pleasures – an outcome that is already being realised. But while some will doubtless invest in short-term gains, others may well consider longer term benefits. Bibi Dodd, business development manager with Total Implant Solutions, Tettenhall, says: “Those who plot market trends and potential investments seem to be missing another area of big spending potential that we believe will benefit the aesthetic and cosmetic dental fields. “Implant dentistry – particularly for those of an age where their teeth could be compromised – could find themselves in a position to secure long-term solutions to more than likely, equally long-term problems. What’s more the investment

“Dentistry has come a long way. Now we can help eliminate all of those limitations with an over denture.” This type of therapy is primarily tissueborne with either two or four implants providing retention and stability. “We use abutments that are like press studs and the dentures simply click firmly into place. Patients can insert the dentures and taken them out themselves. They offer a cost-effective way into implant dentistry and the outcomes are clinically predictable and look like natural teeth.” In a new arrangement, Total Implant Solutions is working alongside Simply Dentures which is based at their Tettenhall Road premises. Under the directorship of Peter Brookes DipCDT a laboratory is being kitted out and regular clinic timetabled. With more than 15 years’ experience as a technician, Peter trained at the University Of Central Lancashire to qualify as a Clinical Dental Technician in 2014.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

A warm smile with predictable outcomes – a possible investment for pension cash lump sums

His last six years have been spent training within a private denture clinic, giving him “a great insight into the manufacture of high quality dentures.” Says Peter: “My firm belief is that patients should be involved and informed throughout all of the stages of construction, therefore giving them the confidence that they will actually get the smile they deserve. What’s more, investing into new dentures may not prove to be as expensive as first thought with a number of options available. “We always produce high-quality denture and on the way take on board the feedback that is given.

and then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone.

last an hour and in total at least five appointments for a new prescription will be required. As well as implant-retained overdentures, traditional dentures, repairs, relines and cleaning services will be available. “While working alongside Total Implant Solutions, my goal is simple: To create beauty in every smile,” adds Peter.

Implant procedure for overdentures Medical grade titanium post are surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthetic

For those requiring overdentures, a temporary prosthetic is fitted while the implant points heal and the titanium integrates with the bone. When everything is healed up and the implants securely consolidated, an impression is taken and the final prosthesis made on the premises. Follow-up appointments address any fine-tuning issues. Adds Peter: “Aftercare is central to the service we bring. Patients are not deserted when the work is complete and I encourage regular feedback from them.”

“Having to wear dentures is something that many people through the years have struggled to cope with and indeed, learning to master dentures can be quite a skill. “We find that the three most common issues for denture wearers are the fit, the function and appearance. “With years of training and experience, using the latest technologies, our team aims to provide dentures that help to overcome these common, challenging problems.” Peter adds that patient’s first, no obligation, consultation will www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Illustration of implant-retained overdentures

Wollaston

Beauty Clinic

All you need to say thank you to your mum At Wollaston Beauty Clinic they’ve got it all covered for you to pamper and treat your mum this Mother’s Day with pamper packages, exquisite luxury gifts and vouchers.

“We have been using ESPA at the salon since it was established in 1993, it’s a British brand and is synonymous with quality. ESPA products are used in many of the top spas, 5 star hotels around the world and department stores such as Harvey Nichols & Liberty of London”

Marketing manager, Jenny Birch explains: “Our newlook salon is the perfect venue to totally relax your mum and make her feel special. Think Paris boutique meets cosy cocoon with modern warm candle lit rooms bathed in a sumptuous deep purple theme and heated treatment beds, she’ll be floating on air.”

ESPA products are 99.9% natural and all aromatherapy based. Totally designed to improve your skins vitality and wellbeing there is a product to suit all skin types and the experienced and fully trained team at Wollaston Beauty Clinic can advise you on home care regimes and any specific skin issues you may have.

Using ESPA, the leading brand in skin care products, the team have created a gorgeous pamper package including a limited edition ESPA Skin Radiance facial together with a mini manicure or pedicure. They have included a complementary glass of wine and a lovely gift for your mum to take home to complete her experience,

You can purchase the special Mother’s Day package vouchers over the counter in the salon or over the phone and then have them posted out to either yourself or your mum. Each pamper package is worth £79 but from now until Saturday 14th March 2015 you will only pay £38.

Win a Mother’s Day Pamper Package Courtesy of Wollaston Beauty Clinic one lucky reader the chance to win

To enter simply answer the following question correctly.

a Mother’s Day Pamper Package.

Entries to be received by Saturday 14th March 2015.

Wollaston Beauty Clinic are giving

What is the website address for Wollaston Beauty Clinic? Email your answer including your name, address and telephone number to: info@townandvillagelifemag.co.uk 88

Competition Terms & Conditions Only email entries will be accepted. Winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and informed by telephone. To enter you must be aged 18 years or older. No cash or alternative prize will be given. Bookings subject to availability. All entries will be forwarded to Wollaston Beauty Clinic unless requested otherwise.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

OFFER ÂŁ38

th r o W 9 ÂŁ7

Fac ial .M Gift ini M e e r anic ne . F i w ure or f o Pedicure . Glass

Wollaston Beauty Clinic where relaxing & pampering is essential www.wollastonbeautyclinic.co.uk 153 Bridgnorth Road, Wollaston, Stourbridge Tel: 01384 393305 Not valid with any other offer, loyalty scheme or course. No refunds on lost or unused vouchers. Validity issued on voucher.89 www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Flower Power

Floral prints Are back

If there’s one trend that encapsulates the feeling of Spring perfectly it’s floral print. The timeless look has once again been reinvented for 2015 and there’s an array of fabulous prints, in all manner of designs, hitting the high street now. Easy-to-wear, feminine and pretty, floral prints are ideal for any occasion. And, thanks to a seemingly endless selection of patterns and hues you’re guaranteed to find a print that’s perfect for you.

By helen Taylor

Shift Floral Print Shift Dress £50 Wallis

Statement Midi Floral Dress £48 Yumi

Remember, keep the focus firmly on the floral print by choosing plain accessories; nude shoes and handbags work well.

Snake Texture Blush Court Shoes £12 Primark

‘Digital Summer Flower Print’ T-Shirt £17 Apricot

‘Norma’ Dress £140 Phase Eight ‘Loretta’ Dress £169 Phase Eight

The images used in this article are readily available in various places on the internet and are believed to be in the public domain. Town & Village Life magazine claims no credit for them unless otherwise noted.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Floral Print Top £29.50 Best of British at M&S

Floral Dress £45 AVA by Mark Heyes at Marisota

Skinny Jeans £89 Jaeger

Dress £55 Autograph at M&S

Ankle Grazer Cream Jeans £19.99 New Look

Butterfly collection by Fei Liu, Award Winning Designer 2014. From £160.

‘Missie’ Sandals £79 Dune ‘Borough Market’ Handbag £219 Radley

Exclusively at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton

‘Elodine’ Dress £140 Phase Eight If you own the rights to any of the images, or if any content appearing in Town & Village Life magazine infringes on your copyright, please notify us and they will be promptly removed.

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

‘Ariel’ Lace Dress £140 Phase Eight

The man behind the

miles of smiles Are they real, or are they false? Steven Burchell DipCDT RCS(Eng), GDC 108353 flips through the images on his iPad and begs the question of a hundred different smiles.

“Of course they are all false teeth,” he says, pointing out the subtle differences that make these dentures a “a class apart.” For the untrained eye it’s impossible to know the difference between natural teeth and the Denture Clinic’s work – even full-blown smiles fail to offer a clue. Steven, whose reputation for solving denture problems has attracted patients from as far away as Spain and Portugal, first made headlines as “the smile mechanic” more than ten years ago. Since then he has established one of the most high-profile denture clinics in the West Midlands as well as a general

Teeth are hand-crafted in the Denture Clinic laboratory

dental practice with a special interest in cosmetic dentistry.

and other clinics – is an expression of what our patients desire.

His work as principal of the Denture Clinic stable has found satisfied patients not only overseas, but from Dorset, the Isle of Anglesey, the Isle of Skye and London.

“In a similar way we must hear what patients’ own aspiration are and how they want their teeth to look. In the past people have presented pictures of themselves before their teeth were compromised and I have copied them.

“My name is out there,” he says. “But I wonder sometimes how people find me. Our promotional work is in the West Midlands, yet virally it reaches all over the UK and beyond. We regularly receive inquiries from well outside our catchment areas and I am humbled by the great reputation of the clinics’ work.” Always happy to give advice, Steven remains evangelical about the benefits of top quality, traditional denture prescriptions. “Of course, I’m the first to embrace technological developments in denture and dental treatment provision, but I’m often surprised by what great results functional, natural-looking prosthetics can achieve.” In recent years new materials, and what Steven describes as “the fusion of science and art” have revolutionised denture production.

Steven Burchell DipCDT RCS(Eng), GDC 108353 – a full understanding of denture-related problems

I listen to what my patients have to say. In fact, the whole dental experience offered by Denture Clinic – my North Street practice in Dudley

“I had one patient who wanted gold in-fills in his teeth . . . it’s all possible.” Steven draws on more than 35 years’ experience in all disciplines of dental technology to produce his handcrafted teeth in the laboratory at the Dudley practice. “It allows me total control of quality and all of the team share my ethos of always striving for something greater than patient expectations,” he says. “It’s my experience that there are too many people putting up with ill-fitting dentures. “With lips that are pinched, lower dentures with excessive mobility allowing food ingression between the plate and the gums, sore spots and teeth that do not function well, it’s no wonder so many wearers feel frustrated.” Steven passionately embraces what he calls “the denture revolution” offering denture users real hopes of resolving a catalogue of related problems.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

suction alternative

sparks big interest Branded as the smile mechanic by the Press, evidence of the transformations Steven Burchell Dip CDT RCS(Eng) GDC108353 has overseen is well aired in the media.

Steven, who holds clinics in Wolverhampton, Dudley, Kidderminster and Dorridge, says: “In recent times we have seen, what I can describe only as strident clinical advances, with implant-retained over-dentures, ‘teeth-in-a-day’ implant procedures and suction solution dentures, all coming into main-stream dentistry.

But of many hundreds of dentures he has made, one particular prosthetic has caused the biggest stir amongst denture wearers – the Ultra Suction Solutions.

“We also have clever injection moulding technology which allows excellent fitting outcomes and our clinical solutions have never been so appealing.

Prosthetics are held in place by tiny valve-operated suction devices which are built into the prescription. A clever diaphragm principle, triggered by bite pressure on patients’ gums, creates a ‘sucking’ vacuum between the soft-tissue mouth lining and the prosthetic.

“Implant dentistry as a resolve for stabilisation issues is not suitable for everyone, neither is it all patients’ first preference. The Ultra Suction

prosthetics system offers a possible clinical alternative. “The beauty of this affordable technology is that it can deliver, for the right patient, excellent denture-retainer qualities without the invasive clinical procedures required for implant work.” Steven adds: “The device can be mounted on upper or lower teeth.” Denture provision can present monumental challenges, but he says the greatest reward of intelligent clinical analysis is the untold number of excellent clinical outcomes and often being privileged to play a small part of a complete lifechanging process for the good.

The Ultra Suction System

on’t D let troublesome dentures let you down • Complete Dentures • Partial Dentures • Suction Dentures • Implant Dentures • Copy Dentures • Denture Relines • Soft Linings • Denture Repairs

FREEPHONE 0800 0285185 Call NOW for a FREE first consultation!

P www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Clinics at Dudley, Wolverhampton, Kidderminster and Solihull www.denture-clinic.co.uk email: info@denture-clinic.co.uk

PERRY and PHILLIPS Auction report for 3rd February 2015

hinged cover surmounted by a figure of Triton blowing a horn. It sold for £4000 plus buyer’s premium at the auction with several bidders taking part. There were many items of silver in the auction such as a Punch Bowl, Tea Caddy and others all sold well. Another item which had a lot of interested bidders was a French Walnut Gilt metal mounted fall front Bureau with fitted interior, the opening bid was £400 but it eventually sold for £1400 plus buyer’s premium. It was

Perry and Phillips always hold their auctions on the first Tuesday of the month and the start is 10.30am. Viewing for the auction is held on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday prior to the auction. The February Auction did not have the usual amount of lots probably because of the Christmas break, but what we did have was quality. We only had 240 lots when there would normally be over 400, but even so the auction was very well attended and had a very good atmosphere. The auctions are usually well attended I think partly because of the tea rooms, which firstly is very comfortable but more importantly because the food is excellent. The most exciting item was a silver ornamental inkstand by Paul Storr

dated 1829. Paul Storr (1771-1844) was probably the best regarded Silversmith of his era. He was noted for his outstanding craftsmanship and produced richly decorated ornamental works especially in silver. A noted example was a Presentation Cup given to Admiral Nelson for his Victory of the Nile in 1798 which is in the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. The Inkstand pictured below was of naturalistic shell form with

in very good order - a really attractive piece of furniture. There was a collection of Beswick figures which sold well including a rare Beswick Seated Hare and a Hereford Bull, Cow and Calf and as always, there was a large collection of jewellery which included an 18ct White Gold Diamond and Sapphire Ring, 1914 Sovereign ring in 9ct gold mount and several lots of boxes of costume jewellery all having many interested bidders and selling well. All in all, an extremely successful auction, which was very well attended with the internet attracting successful bidders from Malta, Italy, New Zealand, Turkey, USA and Ireland; we were therefore busy packing and posting for the rest of the week! Our next auction is Tuesday 3rd March and we are open for viewing all over the weekend prior to the auction. Perry & Phillips, Old Mill Auction Rooms, Mill Street, Low Town, Bridgnorth WV15 5AG. Telephone 01746 762248

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

OLD MILL AUCTION ROOMS MILL STREET, LOW TOWN BRIDGNORTH WV15 5AG

TEL 01746 762248

ANTIQUE AND SELECTED FURNITURE AND COLLECTABLES AUCTIONS NEXT AUCTIONS Tuesday 3rd March Tuesday 7th April Tuesday 5th May

VIEWING

Saturday and Sunday 10am – 4pm, Monday 10am – 5pm prior to auction

LAST DAY FOR LOTS

Accepted up until 10 days prior to Auction

SELLING AT PERRY AND PHILLIPS

If you have old items around the house or you have a deceased estate to clear we have the ability and experience to help. We have monthly auctions so items can be dealt with quickly.

FREE VALUATION

We have a FREE valuation day every Wednesday from 10am to 4pm. As well as discussing auction estimates we will advise on the best way to sell your items.

TRANSPORT AND STORAGE

As we employ our own delivery and collection staff we can ensure your goods are dealt with by trained staff and are insured.

www.perryandphillips.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Registered Charity No. 512387

Family Camp out & Activity Weekend Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd August 2015 Pause the computer games, put down the smart phones and shut the lids on those laptops… This summer’s Compton Hospice Fundraising event is all about family time! Bring the whole clan and join the hospice team as they set up camp in the heart of the picturesque Kinver Scout woods from Friday 21st-Sunday 23rd August 2015. Pitch your tent and enjoy a range of crafts and activities including archery and rifle shooting - all for one great price! Let mum master the climbing wall, while dad tries his hand at African drumming and the kids go all Ray Mears in our bushcraft sessions. Alternatively simply soak up the sun and get back to nature as you and your family explore the woodland glades away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To round things off why not join in the Compton Campfire, complete with a traditional singalong (full weekend campers only). Make this summer one to remember and sign up today! Proceeds go towards Compton Hospice. (Day passes and full weekend without camping tickets also available. Tents not provided for weekend campers.)

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd August 2015

PLEASE FILL IN CAPITAL LETTERS DETAILS

Name……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………DOB………………………………………………… (must be over 16 to attend alone, however under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over ) Address……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Postcode…………………………… Tel no.(Day)…………………………………………………………………(mobile)…………………………………………………………………………………… Email address………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Names of other persons in your group: 1…………………………………………………………………………………………………………DOB (If under 18)……………………………………………… 2…………………………………………………………………………………………………………DOB (If under 18)……………………………………………… 3…………………………………………………………………………………………………………DOB (If under 18)……………………………………………… 4…………………………………………………………………………………………………………DOB (If under 18)……………………………………………… DECLARATION ** I understand that I will be responsible for anyone under the age of 18 in my party ** ** I understand that single and group photographs may be taken of myself and my household at Compton Hospice events and I am happy for any photographs to be used for Compton Hospice marketing and future publications** ** I and my family are physically fit enough to take part in this event and have no underlying medical conditions that would prevent us from taking part** ** I agree to the terms & conditions printed overleaf**

Signed……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

TYPE OF TICKET Please indicate how many tickets in the boxes provided Full Weekend (with Camping)

Full Weekend (No Camping)

Adult

(aged 16+)

£25 per adult

Adult

(aged 16+)

£20 per adult

Child

(under 16)

£20 per child)

Child

(under 16)

£15 per child

Family

(2 Adults + up to 3 Children)

Single Day Tickets

£80 per family

(please indicate which day you would like to attend by ticking the relevant box)

Adult

(aged 16+)

£15 per person

Child

(under 16)

£10 per person

Family

Saturday

(2 Adults + up to 3 Children)

£65 per family

Sunday

Family (2 Adults + up to 3 Children) £45 per family

PAYMENT • •

UNDER 5’S GO FREE!

I enclose a cheque made payable Compton Hospice for £……………… I authorise Compton Hospice to use the following card details to take a payment of £………………

Mastercard

Visa

(please tick appropriate card type, please note we can not accept any other types of card)

Name on Card __________________________________ Card No. ______________________________________ Start Date ______________________________________ Expiry Date ____________________________________ Security Code _______________

(Last 3 digits on back)

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

Signed _____________________________________________

5 tips to have

HAPPY FEET sure to dry between your toes. Keeping your feet dry is a great way to prevent bunions and warts.

Keep your feet Moisturized Moisturize your feet after washing. During dry-skin winter months, you may want to moisturize several times a day. Nothing fancy is needed: basic lotions and creams are fine.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

It’s easy to take our feet for granted. They’re just there, putting up with a host of challenges, from being jammed into high heels and elevated to unnatural heights to smothering inside sweaty socks or a pair of nylon tights.

have annual assessments with the Chiropodist or a Podiatrist to keep an eye on their feet as diabetes affects the nerves and blood vessels of the feet making them more vulnerable to damage and reduced ability to heal.

Our feet can take some major beating from all that working and running around we do on a day to day basis. Feet are rarely given the attention and importance they deserve. Unhealthy feet can lead to infection thus rendering the person immobile. They can also offer signs of an underlying condition, such as diabetes.

Remove Dead Skin Cells

People with diabetes or Rheumatoid Arthritis, should pay particular attention to their feet by checking them daily for abnormalities such as cuts, abrasions, colour or temperature changes or abnormal sensations, numbness, pins and needles, tingling etc. Diabetics should 98

Spending just a few minutes a day caring for your feet can keep you free of problems that may lead to pain and even disability. These few tips can help your feet feel great:

Make it a habit to smooth out the feet using a pumice stone or foot file. Dampen the heels and calluses for at least 10 Minutes before rubbing it thoroughly. This will make it easier to remove dead skin cells. You can also go the extra mile by preparing a foot bath made of black tea, which is a good natural antibacterial agent that may reduce the risk of athlete’s foot.

Always Keep Them Dry

The shoes or flip flops you wear will play an important role on our feet’s health over time. Your feet will stay healthy if you wear the right footwear that’s designed to keep them clean, dry, and within comfortable temperatures. Keep them warm during the winter season with waterproof socks and boots and let them hang loose with sandals during hot summer days.

Keep a look out Do regular check-ups on your feet to assess their health. If you see anything that might cause concern, consult a qualified podiatrist/ Chiropodist and do not try to fix it by yourself. Doing so may further worsen the condition. You only get one pair of feet, so you need to look after them! With a little bit of maintenance and some tender loving care, they should give you a lifetime of trouble-free walking. To find out more about Paycare and how to claim back money spent on treatment at the Chiropodist visit: www.paycare.org or call 01902 252265.

After a shower or dip in the pool, dry your feet with a washcloth or towel. Athlete’s foot and other foot-infesting fungus tends to thrive in moist environments. Make town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

I t ’s n e v e r t o o e a r l y

to start saving

f o r y o u r c h i l d ’s f u t u r e At Dudley Building Society we see the importance of saving for your child’s future to ensure that they have the best start to life that they can, which is why we offer a long term tax-free saving option for young people.

between £100 and £2,499 and 2.50% for balances over £2,500, this is an excellent way to invest in your child’s future. The account must be opened and operated by a registered contact who will have parental responsibility for the child.

Our Cash Junior ISA provides your child with a way to save for their future to help them explore different avenues in their lives once they reach 18, whether it’s to fund further education or for a deposit on their first home. It’s never too early to start saving for their future.

No withdrawals are permitted with this account until the account holder reaches the age of 18; however they are able to take control of their own account once they turn 16. This provides them with the independence and financial knowledge they need growing up, whist still being under your supervision and guidance.

With just a minimum opening and operating amount of £100, you can invest up to £4,000 for the tax year 2014/2015. With an interest rate of 1.40% for balances

Dudley Building Society has been providing mortgages and savings accounts to our members for over 150 years. This means that you can be sure that our wide

range of expertise, knowledge and fantastic customer service have all been refined with time, ensuring that each and every member is cared for to the best of our ability. Dedicated to offering products and services which are designed and offered with the best interests of its members in mind, you can be sure that by joining Dudley Building Society you will be well looked after. This account is open to both new and existing customers up to the age of 18 who are UK residents, so if you are interested in saving with Dudley Building Society please call one of our friendly local advisors today on 01384 231414, or visit one of our local branches located in;

Brierley Hill

107 High Street, Brierley Hill, DY5 3AU

Dudley

Dudley House, Stone Street, Dudley, DY1 1NP

Gornal Wood

20 Abbey Road, Gornal Wood, Dudley, DY3 2PG

Kingswinford

802 High Street, Kingswinford, DY6 8AA

Perton

6 Anders Square, Perton, WV6 7QH

Stourbridge

59 High Street, Stourbridge, DY8 1DE

You can also visit www.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk /junior-cash-isa to find out more and read our full terms and conditions. (Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.) 100

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

children’s jisa Save for your child’s future with our Cash Junior ISA Cash Junior ISA

Annual Variable Interest % Gross/AER

£2,500+ £100+

2.50% 1.40%

www.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Education

and Schooling

by David Williams – Headmaster of Tettenhall College knowledge has rightly come under scrutiny. Yet as with all change, the path can be complex and far from straightforward and we have to be careful about rushing headlong into this “Brave New World”. At Tettenhall College we are about to embark on considerable investment in our ICT infrastructure, with decisions and priorities being established in a strategic plan to ensure the best outcomes for our pupils in and out of the classroom. As with all educational change, this should be the key driver-”iPads or laptops for all” can often be code for a marketing ploy to suggest a forward-thinking school when the real question should be “how do these devices benefit pupils’ learning?” Are they expensive machines used for simple, mundane tasks or are they enabling pupils to genuinely collaborate with each other and make their learning more interesting and stimulating? How does the work using mobile devices inject creativity into the curriculum? Do we teach ICT or embed it in our delivery of subjects? What about computer science which the government has boldly put in our curriculum?

As educators we are regularly being told that we are preparing young people for a world of constant change. It has almost become a cliché to mention the fact that the jobs for which we are preparing them for do not even exist yet, although we all accept that for most the idea of a “job for life” will not be a reality for many leaving our schools in the early 21st Century. As with any point in history, there are opportunities for many as new industries develop but threats for others as shifts in trends change the face of business and the world around us. One only has to look at the supermarket and music industries to see how quickly certainties and powerful positions can crumble as we change our habits and transfer loyalties elsewhere. Technology is at the heart of this; the internet and digital development has revolutionised our way of looking at the world and interacting with each other. Schools and teachers themselves find themselves challenged by the likes of the Khan Academy, providing online and personalised learning. The old model of teacher in front of class imparting 102

In consulting with parents about technological change one finds mixed responses with, on the one hand, an acknowledgement that digital learning ought to be at the heart of a modern education but, on the other, worries about the health risks attached to WiFi, excessive screen use in leisure time, the need for tight and robust user policies and education on internet safety. Teachers are keen to embrace the new opportunities to engage learners but rightly put the emphasis on their subject or age group needs and adequate training. Pupils have also expressed their views about how technology can be best used to share, collaborate and have access to course materials outside the school environment. A personal feeling is one of excitement faced with this changing landscape but I am not convinced we will see an end to the school model as we know it. The need to interact with fellow human beings, be inspired and supported by teachers and fellow pupils in a school community has surely not had its day. However, there is no doubting the immense potential for enhancing the educational offering as schools are no longer playing catch up with developments in technology but able to embrace them and enhance pupils’ learning with relevant use of ICT in the classroom. town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre:

01922 417790

Codsall Leisure Centre:

01902 844032

Penkridge Leisure Centre:

01785 714152

Wombourne Leisure Centre:

01902 898202

SSTAFFS.GOV.UK/SUSSED

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

is Vocabulary

really as crucial as we think in 11+ exams and English GcSE exams? Vocabulary is the metaphorical key to the door of educational opportunity. Without understanding sophisticated, elegant and challenging words students who are preparing for 11+ exams, SATs exams and English GCSE exams will struggle to be successful. However, in a world where children simply do not read as regularly as they should, how can vocabulary be as strong as it should be? The answer is by using my English vocabulary flash cards. They are 300 cards with sophisticated

words, definitions, sentences with key words and synonyms and antonyms. I am very proud of these cards and I know the difference that they make to my students.

Mr Laurence Dalton Private English Teacher

To reserve your copy please email learnmore4a@hotmail.co.uk Please note that I am fully booked for 11+ tuition and English GCSE tuition until September 2015. To reserve a place for September 2015 onwards please enquire via email. I have seven places left for September 2015/2016 academic year.

Learn more 4 A D i s cov e r Your Pote nti al English Vocabulary Flashcards for 11+ English and Verbal Reasoning Sophisticated, challenging and demanding words selected from past papers. Definitions given, synonyms, antonyms and example sentences.

Vocabulary is KEY for 11+ success: this is your answer. Email learnmore4a@hotmail.co.uk to reserve your pack.

O P E N D AY Nursery to Year 13

Friday, 6 March, 10am-3pm and Saturday, 7 March, 10am-1pm w w w. t h e r o y a l s c h o o l . c o . u k Penn Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV3 0EG Telephone: 01902 341230 mo@royal.wolverhampton.sch.uk

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Social Scene

Holiday Inn Hotel Bromsgrove A charity ball was held at The Holiday Inn Hotel in Bromsgrove to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, an organisation which helps people suffering from all types of blood cancer. The event was jointly arranged by Jacquie Eaton and her daughter Laura Crowle, who have both experienced the tragic loss of several friends and family members to cancer. Jacquie said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;After seeing families suffering due to the devastating effects cancer can have on their lives, we came up with the idea to organise a charity ball in order to raise money.

5 1. (Back Row) Aidan Brooks, Georgina Green, Andrea Bull (Front Row) Beth Amphlett, Hannah Griffin, Gemma Moore, Phil Moore 2. Anthony Marks, Stuart Smith 3. Gareth Clowes, Luise Middleton 4. Primrose Breechtmann, Lauren Thomas-Clowes 5. Cassie Gregory, Jo Parish (Group Leader Scientist At B-Ham Uce For Research In To Leukaemia And Lymphoma And Was A Guest Speaker At The Event) 6. Cynthia Hammond, Steve Hammond 7. Matt Gregory, Alan Earp 8. Pauline Lawton, Philip Lawton 9. Victoria Vollars, David Green 10. Sam Parish, Greg Oakland 11. Helenmary Attwell, Martin Attwell

Looking for advice on cosmetic surger y?

Charity Details: https://leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/ Photographs courtesy of Crescent Imaging: www.crescent-imaging.co.uk Photography for all occasion, Weddings, Events, New-born, Family, Commercial. 106

Book a FREE 10 minute one-to-one chat with a consultant at our next cosmetic events on Tuesday 17th March 2015 and Monday 27th April 2015. Please call 0845 603 4346 to book your place.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Social Scene

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

107

Looking Good

New season looks for him by helen Taylor

Update your look this season with a few key buys that’ll ensure you’re set for Spring. Colourful t-shirts are a great way to brightenup your everyday wardrobe - wear them under a casual jacket if it’s cool outside. Ditch your old trainers and replace them with a bright pair of hi-tops to compliment your jeans perfectly.

Red Marl Pocket Front T-Shirt £20 Linea at House of Fraser

Stone Wash Jeans £120 G-Star at House of Fraser Model wears: Printed Sweatshirt £26, T-Shirt £16, Jeans £40, Socks £12, Watch £25, Hi-Top Trainers £32 All from Next.

Hi-Top Trainers £32 Next Quickster Chronograph Watch RRP £270 OUR PRICE £233* Tissot at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton

PR100 Watch RRP £175 OUR PRICE £166* Tissot at T.A. Henn, Wolverhampton

*Our promise - price matching - please refer to our T&C’s.

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Model wears: Jacket £65, Camo Print T-Shirt £35, Jeans £35, Boots £58 All from Next.

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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A new chapter for the Volvo XC90

2015 is already looking to be an exciting year for Brindley Volvo as the highly anticipated all-new XC90 will arrive at the Stourbridge and Wolverhampton dealerships from April. The new XC90 marks the beginning of a new chapter in Volvoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, capturing its future design direction, incorporating its own range of new technologies and utilising its new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) technology. Volvo Cars UK were able to preview the all-new XC90 to a range of customers and from feedback already received, a number of additions have been made available to order. Principle changes have been the introduction into the UK of the 320hp T6 petrol engine and the addition in the availability of the auxiliary heater on the D5. The auxiliary heater, standard on the T8 Twin Engine, allows the driver to pre-condition the vehicle cabin to a set temperature so that it is ready for when the car is required. The XC90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior is the most luxurious to have been designed for 110

a Volvo. The most striking feature is a tablet-like touch screen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new in-car control system. This system is virtually button free, a simplicity that opens up generous surfaces and gives the opportunity to create a modern, luxurious interior architecture. The new model offers a range of two-litre, four-cylinder Drive-E powertrains, all of which provide an outstanding combination of performance and fuel-efficiency. The top of the range XC90 Twin Engine, which combines a supercharged and turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offers an unrivalled combination of power and clean operation: around 400 horsepower with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of 64 g/km (NEDC driving cycle). Normal driving is conducted in the default hybrid mode. But at the push of a button the driver can switch to quiet and emission-free city driving on pure electric power where the range will be around 40 kilometres, and then, when needed, immediately revert back to the combined capacity of the petrol engine and electric motor. Combined

maximum torque is over 600 Nm, making the XC90 accelerate from 0 to 100 in 6.4 seconds. The all-new XC90 offers the most comprehensive and technologically sophisticated standard safety package available in the automotive industry. It includes two world first safety technologies: a run-off road protection package and auto brake at intersection capability. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the first car in the world with technology that features automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming car - a common scenario at busy crossings. In a run-off road scenario, the XC90 detects what is happening and the front safety belts are tightened to keep the occupants in position. To help prevent spine injuries, energy-absorbing functionality between the seat and seat frame cushions the vertical forces that can arise when the car encounters a hard landing in the terrain. For more information on the XC90 and other Volvo models available, or to pre order your car now, call 01384 849216 (Stourbridge), 01902 690727 (Wolverhampton) or visit www.brindley4volvo.co.uk

town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

The Brand New Volvo XC90 is coming soon. Reserve yours now.

The all-new XC90 comes from Sweden. It’s bold, yet not brash. It exudes power and conﬁdence with subtlety. Its imposing presence is elegant and understated.

STANDARD FEATURES: • City safety with front collision warning & autobrake • Pedestrian & cyclist detection • Rear collision mitigation • Driver alert control with lane departure warning • Road sign information • Sensus navigation

• 8 speed automatic • LED active bending headlights • Leather faced upholstery • 8˝ active TFT crystal driver information display • Power opening tailgate with handsfree opening

The Brand New VOLVO XC90 from £45,785

For full specification and model variants please visit: www.volvocars.com/uk/all-cars/all-new-volvo-xc90 Official fuel consumption for the All-New Volvo XC90 in mpg (l/100km) [excluding T8 Twin Engine – full figures not yet available]: Urban: 28.8 (9.8) – 45.6 (6.2), Extra Urban: 40.4 (7.0) – 52.3 (5.4), Combined 35.3 (8.0) - 49.6 (5.7). CO2 Emissions 64 - 186g/km.

BRINDLEY STOURBRIDGE

Tel. 01384 849216

Grange Lane, Lye, Stourbridge DY9 7HH

BRINDLEY WOLVERHAMPTON

Tel. 01902 590727

Wolverhampton Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 1HF

www.brindley4volvo.co.uk www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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S o u l R i s i ng

By Rob Taylor

The freshly toasted bread was already suffused with butter. It was now time to reach for the yellow-topped jar of yeast extract, known colloquially to friends ’round here in the Midlands as “Mar-mate, Marmite”, in an effort to boldly coordinate the perfect marriage of breakfast spreads; but just then I hesitate as I catch sight of the Kia Soul parked outside my kitchen window. In a beautiful moment of inspiration I realise exactly how best to describe the styling of the bigger, all-new second gen iteration of Kia’s compact SUV crossover: Marmite. That is to say, for those of you not familiar with the neologism, that you either love it or hate it. Needless to say I am squarely encamped in the former, being as I am so thoroughly charmed by its prepossessing appearance: it is like a rebellious pimple, defiant and bold - and ever-so-slightly reminiscent of Postman Pat’s van in the as-tested Inferno Red colour against the grey pallor of today’s motoring landscape. The attention to detail is just as impactful as the styling too. This 1.6 litre CRDi 126 bhp Mixx version boasts real substance as well as style. For £19,750 you get a cavalcade of kit; a plethora of properties, a litany of lovelies. Let’s start off outside and work our way in: 18” alloys, chrome door handles, tinted glass, electric folding mirrors, high gloss bumpers and A-pillars, LED daytime running lights and heated door mirrors. Phew. Deep breath… Now let’s go inside, where there’s an 8-speaker Infinity audio system with Bluetooth, reversing camera, DAB radio, touchscreen Sat-Nav, steering wheel-mounted controls and a personal favourite of my girlfriend 112

Rob Taylor spreads the good word on the new Kia Soul SUV.

Nicola’s demanding derriere, heated seats. Everything is well-made and satisfying to touch: it feels sturdy and robust and likely to last. You really can see why Kia has the confidence to supply all of its vehicles with a 7 year / 100,000 mile warranty. And that’s not all. Under the skin there’s more acronymic active safety and driving dynamic systems than you can shake a stick at: EBD, BAS, ESC, VSM, HAC and TPMS to name but some. The inevitable consequence of such is that this car drives, stops and handles extremely well. Never in normal driving conditions (read: going to work and to and fro the shops) does its oddball shape affect driveability. If anything, you’ll love the many advantages of its design, particularly if you have a family because space in the back is plentiful. So too will you like it if you dabble in the performing arts and regularly travel to and from the theatre in costume replete with Stovepipe hat, since the headroom is more than ample. Drivers will like this car too as its raised driving position means you instantly transform into an avatar; an omniscient being who see and hears all fore and aft. Combined fuel economy of 56.5 mpg is reasonable and achievable, so it won’t cost the earth to run. It has a top speed of 112 mph that is plenty and 192 lb ft of torque, which is handy when overtaking or just pottering around at low revs. As an exercise in box-ticking, I’d wager that this car wins against any comparable rival, yet it has more than this: it has, ahem, soul. For, you see, the Soul injects a little bit of buzz back into motoring, inspiring reactions and stirring the souls of young and old as it goes about its daily business. Turning dullards into dynamos and the dreary into day-glo it makes the world more fun and funky. And cars today need this more than ever. town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

WHY PAY DEALERSHIP PRICES TO SERVICE

YOUR RENAULT? MINOR SERVICE £89* ALL INCLUSIVE

Servicing with us at Four Ashes will not affect your Manufactures Warranty. We also service all other Renault models out of the warranty period.

FULL SERVICE £149* ALL INCLUSIVE

www.fourashesrenault.co.uk NOW OPEN FOUR ASHES ACCIDENT REPAIRS LTD ALL IN-HOUSE FACILITY OFFERING A FULL RANGE OF BODYSHOP SERVICES

FOR ALL MODELS Including: * Accident and Insurance Work * Full and Partial Resprays * Scratch and Chip Repairs * Alloy Wheel Repairs

Had an accident, in need of a respray? Give Us A Call!

12 Reg Vehicles (3 years old) - Your MOT is (or soon will be) due - Check your date of registration on your vehicle log book. • MOT testing arranged • Large stoock of new and used parts • Computerised diagnostic (main dealer equipment) • Accident/mechanical repairs & insurance work undertaken • All work is fully guaranteed! • Courtesy Cars free of charge • Pick up and Drop-off service* • Servicing while you wait *conditions apply, please call for more details

MOT WITH ANY SERVICE

£25 *All models over 3 years old and out of Renault warranty period. Prices start from as listed. Please call for more details and exact price for your vehicle.

10 Reg and 60 Reg Vehicles DONT FORGET YOUR CAM/TIMING BELT!

Most Renaults require Cam/Timing Belt change at 72,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first). Cam/Timing Belt failure will result in serious engine damage, so make sure yours is changed at the correct intervals. Call us for more details.

FOUR ASHES RENAULT SPECIALISTS Station Drive, Four Ashes, Wolverhampton WV10 7BU

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

01902 790123

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Advertising & PR consultants Nash Consulting 55 Airport, Transfers & Executive Travel Image Luxury Travel 74 Antiques & Auctioneers Old Mill Antiques Centre 70 Perry & Phillips 95 Appliances Electrical/Gas Capital Appliances 39 Artificial Lawn Supply & Installation Nevermo 43 Awnings Castle Blinds 33 Love Your Blinds 21 Bathrooms Brierley Hill Bathrooms 29 Eaton Kitchens 29 Roman Bathrooms 19 Wall Heath Bathrooms 27 Beds & Bedroom Furniture Interiors Italia 24/25 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Woodrobes 15 Blinds/Curtains Castle Blinds 33 Love your Blinds 21 Val Hever Blinds 27 Virgo Interiors 10 Beauticians Wollaston Beauty Clinic 89 Building & Maintenance Contractors Three Pines 5 Building Societies Dudley Building Society 101 Carpets Supply/Fit ND Walters 13 Virgo Carpets & Interiors 10 Car Sales/Service Brindley Volvo 111 ETB 109 Four Ashes Renault 113

Chimney Sweeps Wilkins Chimney Sweep 48 Coffee Shops No.92 Coffee Lounge 59 Composite Doors Doorsmart 37 Cosmetic & Beauty Clinics Medi Visage 79 Delicatessen Corbelli 57 Dentistry Denture Clinic 93 Simply Dentures 2 Total Implant Solutions 83 Education Learn more 4A 105 Royal School 105 Tettenhall College 103 Fencing & Gates Profence 45 Fireplaces/Stoves Flaming Fires 13 Fish & Chip Shops Blue Submarine 61 Floral Design & Venue Styling Every Occasion 75 Furniture/Furnishings Interiors Italia 24/25 Sofa Factory Outlet 31 Virgo Interiors 10 Galleries/Gift Shops Stourbridge Galleries 53 Garage Services ETB 109 Four Ashes Renault 113 Gardening/Landscaping Boningale Nurseries 47 Lealans Garden Centre 49 Garden Irrigation & Lighting Systems Garden Magic 41 Hairdressers Capelli Hairdressing 81 Health Care Cover Paycare 99 Holistic Therapy Auraveda 85

Home Improvements August Home Improvements 23 Hospices Compton Hospice 97 Hospitals (Private) Nuffield 77 Hot Tubs Webbs of Wychbold 46 Independent Financial Advisers Midland Financial Services 8/9 Interior Designers Virgo Interiors 10 Kitchens (Supply, design & fit) Dream Doors 35 Eaton Kitchens 29 Roman Bathrooms 19 Leisure & Fitness Clubs South Staffs Leisure 84/104 Painters/Decorators Dave Russon 48 Photography Crescent Imaging 74 Restaurants/Pubs Halfpenny Green Vineyards 55 Island Pool 67 Saffron Pink 67 Village Hotel 65 Wombourne Tandoori 64 Theatres The Grand Theatre 63/116 Tiles & Interiors Tile Choice 7 Vehicle Hire 4 x 4 Vehicle Hire 115 Veterinary Services Blacks Vets 51 Vineyard & Craft Centre Halfpenny Green Vineyards 55 Wedding Venues Wolverhampton Wanderers FC 73 Windows & Conservatories August Home Improvements 23 Choices Windows 17 Hayley Windows 15

Puzzle Answers Sudoku:

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Quick Crossword:

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Word Search: Hidden Phrase: Happiness is a form of courage. Holbrook jackson

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town & village life magazine | march/april 2015

Hire a New Model Range Rover Vogue from ÂŁ113 per day plus VAT with Insurance included.

+44 (0)7507 444444 | www.4x4vehiclehire.co.uk/central Wolverhampton / Stourbridge and surrounding areas: +44 (0) 1902 504944 Also covering: Warwickshire +44 (0)1926 804444 | Worcestershire +44 (0)1905 704444 Herefordshire +44 (0)1432 814444 | Cotswolds +44 (0) 1285 651555

www.townandvillagelifemag.co.uk

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Great Theatre at the Grand! TUES 10 - SAT 14 MARCH

TUES 17 - SAT 21 MARCH

TUES 24 - SAT 28 MARCH

SAT 4 APRIL

There’s no place like…Wolverhampton Grand Theatre to see the

Chuckle Brothers live on stage!

@WolvesGrand

Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902

116

42 92 12

BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk town & village life magazine | march/april 2015